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THE 



GomiDOD-Sense Horse Book 




BY 



PROF. CHAS. U. PATTON 
VETERINARY SURGEON. 



THE 

COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

BEING A 

CLEAR AND COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT 

OF ALL 

DISEASES OF THE HORSE, 

COMPRISING A 

Diagnosis and Remedies for Chronic and Momentary Diseases, 

SUCH AS 

COLIC.BOTS, SPAVIN, RING BONE, FISTULA, POLL EVIL, DISTEMPER, QUINSY 
LUNG FEVER , EPIZOOTIC, HEAVES, STRING HALT, CRAMPS, BIG HEAD, 
SWEENY, SPRAINS, STIFLE, STABLE GALLS, SPLINTS, CURB, EN- 
LARGED HOCK, RHEUMATISM, HOOF ROT, BLEEDING, SURFEIT, 
FARCY, WORMS, LAMENESS OF THE COFFIN BONE, WIND 
GALLS, THRUSH, WARTS, WEAKNESS ACROSS THE LOINS, 
AFFECTIONS OF THE URINARY ORGANS, SCRATCHES, 
GREASE HEEL, TETANUS OR LOCK JAW, AND A 

NEW METHOD FOR DRENCHING A HORSE, 

With Complete Directions for many Netv Liniments for the 
above Diseases never before offered to the Public. 

Also, the Most Sensible Mode of Taming and Training the Horse, 

As adopted by the Most Noted Horsemen in America . 

BY 

PROF. CHAS. U. PATTON, 

VETERINARY SURGEON. 



1904 

THE NEW ERA PRINTERS, 

Ceero Gordo, Illinois. 



LIBRARY of 00N8f-;£5S 
i Two Copies Received 

QtC 23 1304 

Qoomain tntry 
CUSS_ ^ XXc Noi 

I COPY 6. I 

■ I.I 1 1 ^ 






Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1875, by 

CHARLES U. PATTON, 
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. 



Copyright renewed August 13, 1903. 



PREFACE. 



Halving considered that the contents of a book were of more 
importance than the preface, and having devoted the bulk of 
my mental energies to the book itself, I of course can not be 
expected to write an elaborate preface; and as a preface is a 
sort of necessary introduction to a book, that few people take 
time to peruse, it will be worse than useless to expend time on 
a literary effort that will most likely be entirely overlooked, 
and be doomed to sink into oblivion, "unwept, unhonored, 
and unsung." 

Therefore, without any further preliminary remarks, we 
present this work on the Horse to the public, making no apol- 
ogy for its short -comings, asking no undue credit for the good 
it may contain, and expecting that it will recefve a reasonable 
share of criticism. 

I merely set this waif of "common sense" afloat on the 
boundless sea of literary sense and nonsense, and am hopeful 
as to its fate, because I know that the good it contains needs 
only fair trial and justice, to prove that it does all I claim for 



4 PREFACE. 

it. I do not desire to be considered egotistical, but I merely 
have a wish to do the Horse an act of justice, and to present 
to the world a humane mode of treatment of his diseases, 
which as a victim of mal-practice and cruel usage he most cer- 
tainly deserves. 

THE AUTHOR. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



' PAGE. 

The Bones 9 

Horse's Age 13 

The Blood 15 

The Pulse 21 

Blood-Letting 22 

Lung Feveb 25 

<5UINSY 28 

Distemper 32 

Epizootic 34 

BoTs , 38 

Oolio 41 

PiSTULA 44 

The Eye 47 

Spavin 50 

Heaves 52 

String-Halt 53 

Splint 55 

Acute Founder 57 

Chronic Founder 58 

Tetanus or Lockjaw 59 

Wind-Galls 61 

Warts 63 



6 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

Sweeny 65 

Worms o ' 

Rubbing the Tail '• 68 

Stable-Galls 69 

Enlarged Hock 70 

Corns "^^ 

Farcy '71 

Glanders ^^ 

Surfeit 74 

Gravel 75 

Inflammation of the Brain 76 

Blind Staggers 77 

Curb ^ 78 

Lampas 79 

Hide Bound 80 

Suppression of Urine 81 

Thumps 82 

Stifle 84 

Big-head 85 

Rheumatism 86 

Cramps 87 

Weakness across the Loins 88 

Thick-wind 89 

WotTNDS 90 

Coughs 91 

Scratches 93 

Scours 94 

Giving Medicine 95 

Horse Powders 97 

Liniment for Sore Backs 98 

Liniment for Shoulder Galls 98 

Liniment for Sprains 98^ 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 7 

PAGE. 

Liniments 99 

Coffin Bone 102 

Hoof-Rot 103 

Thrush 104 

Crack Hoofs 105 

Shoulder and Foot Lameness 106 

Horse-Shoeing 107 

Shoeing Horse that Interferes 109 

Breaking an Interfering Horse 109 

Breaking a Forging Horse 109 

Remedy for Narrow Heel 110 

Hoof-bound Horse 110 

Flat Foot Ill 

Nail in a Horse's Foot 112 

Trotting Horse Training 113 

Horse Taming -^. 118 

Jockey Tricks 128 



T II E 

€OMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 



BY PROFESSOR CHARLES U. PATTON. 



Structure atid Physical Properties of 

Botie. 

Bone is one of the hardest structures of the animal 
body; it possesses also a certain degree of toughness 
and elasticity. Its color in a fresh state, is of a pink- 
ish white, externally, and deep red within. On ex- 
amining a section of any bone, it is seen to be com- 
posed of two kinds of tissue, one of which is dense 
and compact in texture, like ivory; the other consist- 
ing of slender fibres and laurellae, which join to form 
a reticular structure. 

The compact tissue is always placed on the exterior 
of a bone; the fibrous tissue is always internal The 
relative quantity of these two kinds of tissue varies in 
different bones, and in different parts of the same bone, 
as strength or lightness is requisite. 



10 THE COMMON-SENSE HOHSE BOOK. 

Bone is permeated during life by vessels, and is in- 
closed in a fibrous membrane, the periosteum, by 
means of which most of these vessels reach the hard 
tissue. If the periosteum be stripped from the living 
bone, small bleeding points are to be seen, which mark 
the entrance of the periosteal vessels. The periosteum 
adheres to the surface of the bones, in nearly every 
part excepting at their cartilaginous extremities. 

ANATOMY. 

It is not my purpose to fill up the pages of this little 
book, with a complete delineation of the anatomy and 
structure of the horse. It is more my object to give 
the diagnosis and treatment of disease; but as I think 
a few of the outlines given will not be amiss, I will men- 
tion the names of some of the principal bones, for the 
benefit of those who desire to know them. 

The horse's structure is composed of two hundred 
and forty-seven bones. The spine consists of seven 
cervical, eighteen dorsal, and six lumbar vertebrae. 
The thorax is composed of the dorsal vertebrae, with 
eighteen ribs on each side, and the sternum which 
joins them. 

The pelvis is made up of two ossa innominata, and 
one sacrum. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 11 

The tail contains about seventeen bones. 
Each fore extremity is composed of the scalpula 
humerus, os brachii, and eight carpal bones; three 

meta-carpal, os suffraginis, os coronal, os pedis, os 
navicular, two ossa sessamoidea. Total on both ex- 
tremities, forty. 
The hind extremity has the femur, patella, tibia, 

fibula, six tarsal bones, three metatarsals, os suffra- 
ginis, OS coronae, os pedis, os navicular, two ossa ses- 
samoidea. Total for both, thirty-eight. 

The cranium consists of ten bones. 

The face and lower jaws have eighteen bones. 

There are forty teeth. 

The bones of the internal ear, number four in each 
organ. Total, eight. 

The bone of the tongue consists of five sections. 

These are the principal bones of the horse, and they 
are differently classified by different writers on the 
horse. 

Some consider the sacrum to be composed of five 
bones, called the sacral vertebrae. Others assert that 
the tail is composed of fifteen bones. 

The bones of the horse are differently constructed, 
some are solid, some hollow, and some are soft and 
spongy. The spongy bones are the ones that are most 



12 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

liable to disease and enlargement. The os pedis and 
OS naviculare are especially subject to disease; as 
they are the bones within the hoof, and are exceeding- 
ly liable to injury. 

The bones that are hollow are the ones that are 
strongest; as they are intended to be exposed to the 
greatest amount of strain, and to bear the burden of 
weight. Diseases of the bones are the ones that yield 
least readily to treatment. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 13 

A HORSE'S AGE. 

It is a very difficult matter to lay down an exact 
rule so that any person can fully and satisfactorily 
determine the age of a horse. Some depend entirely 
upon the teeth of a horse, in discovering his age; but 
there is a great difference in the shapes of i;he teeth, 
and I find but few persons, indeed, who can tell the 
age to a certainty, though I do find a great many pre- 
tenders who assert that the teeth are an accurate 
guide. 

For my own experience in the matter, I m.ust say it 
is very difficult for me to ascertain the exact age of a 
horse, if I judge by the teeth; for, horse's teeth differ 
just according to the different ways in which they 
(the horses) have been kept. 

As it is impossible to give a perfect guide to a 
horse's age, I shall not occupy space in the book by 
laying down rules, that are in many instances inac- 
curate, but will only give the number of teeth, and 
not elaborate on the subject. A horse has forty teeth, 
when he has what is called a "full mouth," he has six 
nippers, twelve grinders and two tushes in each jaw. 

As almost every one that is accustomed to horses, 
can tell a young horse from an old one, by the general 
appearance, and can tell the age up to five years, I will 



14 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

only explain another way by which a person can not 
be mistaken in telling whether a horse is under or 
over ten years old. That is, by the lachrymal duct, 
that conveys the moisture from the eye to the nostril. 
It has a little opening in the nostril, when the animal 
is under ten years of age, this opening lies in a little 
oblong slip, and when he is over ten, it becomes per- 
fectly round. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 15 

The Blood. 

The blood is a fluid holding a large number of min- 
ute cells or corpuscles in suspension. Its general 
physical characters are so well known that we need 
merely say that it is of a dark red or purple color in 
the veins, and "of a bright red or scarlet in the arter- 
iee; that it is viscid, drying rapidly, and with a clam- 
my feeling; salt to the taste, slightly alkaline, and 
with a specific gravity of about 1055. 

GENERAL COMPOSITION OF THE BLOOD. 

On standing, blood, under ordinary circumstances, 
soon separates into two parts— a fluid called the 
"serum" and a clot or "coagulum." The latter is 
not merely the cells or blood-corpuscles spoken of 
above as held in suspension, and which have subsided 
out of the fluid, but consists besides of fibrin which 
has been held in solution in the fluid blood, and 
which in its solidification has been inclosed and im- 
plicated the blood-corpuscles as they subside. The 
blood is thus seen to consist naturally of two parts, 
the plasma or liquor sanguinis, a fluid, rich in 
fibrin and the blood cells or corpuscles; and when 
drawn from the body, of two parts composed differ- 



16 the[common-sense horse book. 

ently to the above, viz., the clot, which comprises the 
blocd-corpuscles and the fibrin of the plasma, and 
the serum which consists of the remainder of the 
plasma. 

The blood-corpuscles, blood-disks, or blood globules, 
as they are most commonly called are of two kinds, 
the red and the white. The red globules are far the 
more numerous, and are those which are always in- 
tended when the expression blood disks or blood- 
globules is used without any other qualification. Their 
color appears of a faint yellow when they are seen 
singly, but it is to their aggregation that the blood 
owes its red hue. 

When the blood is circulating under the microscope 
the blood-globules are seen to be separate from each 
other, and also separated from the wall of the vessel 
by an interval or ''lumen." 

Their shape is very soon influenced by the medium 
in which they are placed, and by the specific gravity 
of that medium. In water they swell up, lose their 
color and cease to be visible, leaving the white cor- 
puscles in the field. Solution of salt or sugar denser 
than the serum, give them a stellate appearance, and 
the usual shape may be restored by diluting the solu- 
tion to the proper point. A solution of the proper 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 17 

strength merely separates the blood globules mechani- 
cally without changing their shape. 

There can be no doubt that the difference in color 
between arterial and venous blood must be due to some 
minute difference in the red blood globules, and is also 
in the highest degree probable that the chemical differ- 
ences between these two kinds of blood are due, in 
part at least, to such differences; but the change has 
not hitherto been rendered perceptible either to the 
microscope or to chemical analysis. 

At the same time, the researches of Prof. Stokes 
show that the coloring matter of the blood produces 
different effects on the solar spectrum, according as it 
is in a more or less oxidized condition; it is in the 
highest degree probable that the same change in the 
oxidation of the contents of the blood-globules pro- 
duces the difference of color between arterial and 
venous flood. 

The fluid part of the blood, the liquor sanguinis or 
plasma is again composed of a permanently fluid por- 
tion—the serum— and of fibrin, which coagulates 
spontaneously when out of the body, but which is 
held in solution during life. 

The fibrin can be separated from blood after it has 
been drawn by whipping it with twigs, to which the 



18 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

fibrin as it coagulates adheres. The hquor sanguinis 
may be obtained free from the red corpuscles ^'by mix- 
ing fresh-drawn blood'with six or eight times its bulk 
of serum, allowing the red particles to subside, and 
then decanting the supernatant fluid and filtering it 
through blotting paper." 

The offices and uses of the fibrin as well as its real 
nature, whether it exists as such in the living blood or 
is a product of the death of that fluid, have been and 
are the subjects of much difference of opinion. 

The fluid left after the coagulation of the flbrin, 

which is the serum of the blood properly so-called, is 

yellowish and contains so much albumen that it solidi- 
fies almost completely on being heated. It is alkaline 
from the presence of free soda and carbonate of soda. 
The chemical composition of the blood is complex 
as might be anticipated of a fluid from which all the 
various tissues of the body are to be formed; and it 
must, of course, vary in various parts of the circulation. 

LYMPH AND CHYLE. 

The lymph and chyle are almost identical in con- 
stitution though the proportion of their cor stituent 
varies in different parts of the vascular system. The 
lymph is the secretion of a system of vessels and 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 19 

glands which takes up from the worn out tissues that 
which is still available for purposes of nutrition, and 
returns it into the veins close to the heart, there to 
l)e mixed with a mass of blood. 

The chyle is a fluid secreted by the villi of the 
small intestines from the food. It is intermingled 
with the lymph, and is poured into circulation 
through the same channels. 

In other respects lymph and chyle are indistin- 
guishable by microscopic examination, but in external 
appearance they are very different. 

Chyle is a milk-white fluid which coagulates spontan- 
eously, and then on standing separates more or less com- 
pletely into a clear part, the liquor chyli, which is iden- 
tical with the liquor sanguinis, and a thinnish jelly-like 
clot, consisting of fibrin in which chyle-corpuscles and 
the fatty molecules are entangled. The white color of 
the chyle is due to the abundance of the molecular base. 
Lymph, as its name implies, is a watery fluid. In the 
lymph the molecular base is absent, and the lymph- 
corpuscles are very few in number, and are said by 
Kolliker to be absent in the smaller vessels. Accord- 
ing to the same author, the size of the lymph-globules 
increases as the fluid ascends higher in course of 
the circulation. In this view the lymph is at first a 



20 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

\ 

mere albuminous fluid, and the chyle at first a mere 
albumino-f atty fluid, the cells in both being produced 
during the passage of the fluid through the glands, 
and being further elaborated, and even new cells pro- 
duced by the division of the old ones in the course of 
circulation. - 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 2H 

The Pulse. 

The pulse is one of the most important aids the vet- 
erinarians have to guide him in making a diagnosis o^' 
a disease, and in ascertaining the state of the general 
system. 

The pulse indicates the number of pulsations of 
blood from the heart. There can be no increased ex- 
citement of the system, whether brought on by exer- 
cise or by intense emotion, but it causes a correspond- 
ing increase of action of the heart; by this disease is 
readily detected in the horse. 

The pulse may be discovered and counted in many 
places, as each artery is a pulse, but is most easily 
discovered on the lower side of the jaw bone, as the 
sub-maxillary artery passes through this bone, and it 
may be distinctly felt on the leg, between the knee 
and the pastern joint. When the fingers are gently 
pressed upon either of the above mentioned places^, 
there will be no trouble in finding a pulse. 

The natural beating of the pulse of a heavy draught; 
horse in a healthy condition, is about thirty-six pul- 
sations per minute. In a light nervy horse, they will 
be from forty to forty-two per minute. 

When a horse becomes a little sick, the pulse wilt 



22 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

increase to from forty-five to fifty, then the horse is 
not considered in a dangerous condition, but when the 
pulse increases to from sixty to seventy-five pulsations 
a minute, the animal needs your immediate attention; 
for, from ninety to one hundred, death generally en- 
sues. 
# • 

A quick, throbbing pulse indicates inflammation. 

A hard pulse— feverishness. 

A small wiry pulse— general inflammation. 

A full corded pulse— always indicates some old 
chronic disease. 

An oppressed pulse— some inflammation of the 
lungs. 

Weak pulse— general debility of the system. 

Common sense should be employed in making up 
the mind with respect to the quickness of pulse in 
different animals such as, taking into consideration 
the temperament of the horse, and the kind of work 
he is employed in. For instance a horse that is over- 
heated may quicken the pulse in many cases from six 
to twelve beats per minute; sometimes a horse being 
frightened will cause the pulse to increase from eight 
to ten pulsations per minute. 

BLEEDING OR LETTING BLOOD 

Is a common practice among veterinarians, but as a 
general thing in my practice, I find blood-letting 



THE COMMON- SENSE HORSE BOOK. 23l 

unnecessary. I consider the blood the life of the horse., 
and as every horse is supposed to have one pound of 
blood for every sixteen pounds of flesh, you will find 
that for the amount of blood taken, the horse will be 
required to receive a certain amount of nutrition, in. 
order to gain it back again, and to regain his strength. 

The only benefit that is derived from bleeding is that 
it relaxes the system, and this may be done very read- 
ily and much more conveniently, by using arterial seda- 
tives. But in cases of fracture or of determination of 
blood to the brain, blood-letting may become necessary^ 
but only in extreme cases. 

The most convenient place to bleed a horse, is in the 
jugular vein, as the blood flows faster at that point,, 
and, as the object is to aflPect the general circulation, it 
can be done at this point more easily than at any other.. 
The operation is performed by placing a strap or cord 
around the animal's neck and drawing tight. This will 
throw the vein out more prominently; then take a 
common fleam, place it in a direct line over the vein 
and strike it rather forcibly with some instrument, in 
order to cut through the vein. 

' The operator should use judgment as to the amount 
of blood he draws, as some horses will not bear to have 
as large a quantity taken as others. He should also keep 



24 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

his hand on the horse's pulse, and whenever it begins 
to falter, the blood should be stopped at once; for if 
you blfeed beyond that, the vitality of the horse will be 
affected, and you will do more harm than good. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 25 

Lung Fever. 

This is one of the most dangerous of diseases and is 

very difficult to treat with any success. We have very 

few veterinarians who can treat this terrible malady 

with skill. It should have the most prompt treatment 

in its earliest stages. This disease follows many others, 

such as bronchitis and pleurisy, and in many cases 
makes its appearance without the symptoms of any 
other disease whatever; the horse through some cause, 
catching cold, it is first perceivable by the horse taking 
a severe chill, and a very high fever follows immedi- 
ately; ofentimes there will be from two to three chills 
before the disease fully develops itself. 

Then it needs the strictest attention and utmost 
care, for it often baffles the skill of the best in the 
profession; as some cases are so obstinate that they 
will not yield to any medicine, and as it runs its course 
with great rapidity. 

Some horses have been known to die in from twelve. 
to twenty- four hours after the disease first developed 
itself. 

SYMPTOMS. 

The prominent symptoms in this disease are as fol- 
lows: The horse always droops his head and labors 



2() THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

under great difficulty in breathing; his extremities will 
he extremely cold, which may be discovered by placing 
the hands on the legs of the horse; his pulse will be 
found to have from fifty to sixty pulsations per min- 
ute; he remains standing, refusing to lie down, his fore 
extremities are extended wide apart, in order to ex- 
pand his lungs. 

TREATMENT. 

The object in treating this disease is to control cir- 
culation. This may be done by using the most power- 
ful arterial sedatives, give: 

Tincture Veratrum Viride 2 oz. 

" Digitalis 1 oz. 

" Aconite 4 oz. 

•Sulphuric Ether ^ oz. 

Place a light teaspoonful on the horse's tongue 
eveiy hour for three successive hours; then stop for 
four hours, and if the pulse appears high and corded, 
resurae the medicine for three doses; but if the pulse 
is lowered it is unnecessary, as this disease must be 
:governed entirely by the pulse. The horse's legs 
:should be bathed in a strong solution of English mus- 
tard and vinegar; they should be well bandaged from 
the pastern joint to the knee. 

The horse should be well clothed and kept in a well 
ventilated stable. This treatment should be kept up 



THE COMMON-SENSE HOR^E BOOK. 27 

until the pulse is sufficiently lowered; then the follow- 
ing medicine should be administered: 

Tincture Muriate of Iron . . 2 oz. 

Quinine 30 gr. 

One teaspoonful should be given three times per 
day. This treatment rarely ever fails if the disease 
be taken in its earliest stages. 

Below is given some of the most favorable symp- 
toms, by which it can be told whether the animal is 
improving or not; also some of the most unfavorable 
symptoms. 

The first favorable symptom will be noticed by the 
return of warmth to the animal's extremities, as cir-^ 
culation has then resumed a more natural course, and 
the pulse beats more regularly. 

If the animal is not improving but growing worse, 
the pulse will grow quicker, the nostrils become paler 
and assume a dirty color, the coldness of the jornts 
will increase. 

The animal sometimes relaxes into a comatose state^ 
and becomes entirely stupid; frequently the disease 
runs its course with such rapidity that the lungs be-^ 
come hepatized, then the case is beyond the reach of 
medicine. 



!28 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Qttiiisy. 

The practitioner may be easily mistaken in makings 
B diagnosis of thisdisease, as the symptoms are similar 
to those of lung fever. 

It is first perceptible by the horse drooping, and 
being short of breath, and a seeming difficulty of get- 
ting his breath, sometimes he is given to wheezing; 
this is caused by an inflammation of the glottis, and if 
any one puts his ear to the windpipe, he can hear a sort 
of gurgling sound. 

This disease affects the larnyx, and all the glands 

oi the head; they become enlarged, and cause an en- 
largement on the outer surface. This disease in its 
"worst stages, is similar to diphtheria in the human 
family. It almost invariably impoveris?ies the blood. 
-An animal having quinsy should be placed at once 
:under the most skillful treatment, where it will re- 
ceive the most assiduous attention; as the disease runs 
"its course with great rapidity, and horses will often 
isuffocate in a very short space of time. 

TREATMENT. 

Whatever is done for quinsy, must be done as soon 
as the symptoms indicate the disease. The most 



THE COMMON-SBNSE HORSE BOOK. 29 

prominent symptoms are coldness of the ears and legs, 
and quickness of the pulse. The first thing to be done 
is to govern the blood and regulate the circulation. 
This may be done by using the following combination: 

Tincture Veratrum Viride 2 oz. 

" Digitalis 2 oz. 

" Ether 4 oz. 

" Aconite i oz. 

Give fifteen drops on the tongue every hour until 
the pulse is lowered. Then the horse must be placed 
under constitutional treatment; this may be done ac- 
cording to the following directions: 

Mix Muriate of Iron - 2 oz. 

With Quinine 30 gr. 

Add a tablespoonf ul of water, and give every three 
hours. Bathe the glands of the throat with the White 
Liniment. The animal should be well clothed, and 
kept in a clean, airy stable, and his legs should be 
bathed with a mixture made of one quart of vinegar 
and one ounce of English mustard, as this warms them 
and assists circulation. 

A REMARKABLE CASE. 

During the preparation of this book for press, a case 
of quinsy came under my notice, which in the opinion 
of the public, acquainted with the case, it was almost 



* 



30 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

useless to undertake. I was called upon by Messrs. 
Routh & Lackey, well known horsemen throughout the 
country, to take charge of a valuable animal almost 
hopelessly afflicted with the quinsy. When I first saw 
him, I found him short of breath, and wheezing so 
that he could be heard the distance of a square. Pulse 
very quick and hard; the extremities and ears quite 
cold, and he looked as if it would baffle the skill of the 
most practiced veterinarian to save him. But remem- 
bering the old thread-bare saying "while there is life 

there is hope,'^ I commenced the most rigid treat- 
ment; treating the symptoms as they developed them- 
selves. 

I first lowered his pulse, by using the remedies 
given above for quinsy. I then administered a dose 
containing 

Iodide of Potassium . . 4 gr. 

Quinine 6 gr. 

Opium 1 gr. 

This appeared to relieve him considerably. I con- 
tinued this treatment for two days, giving the powder 
every four hours. I applied a fly blister to the glands 
of the throat; the object of this being to draw the 
inflammation to the outer surface. His breath becom- 
ing fetid, I found it necessary to use a disinfectant. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 31 

After trying all the old disinfectants known to the 
profession, without any satisfactory result, I remed- 
ied the difficulty by using chlorinated soda, which is a 
combination of soda and lime. I also found that this 
assisted him in breathing. 

The horse remained in this very discouraging con- 
dition for several days, without eating, being kept 
alive by giving him the best of brandy and milk, in 
equal proportions, together with a small quantity of 
corn meal gruel. And had I not known of a better 
mode of drenching, than the ordinary method, it would 
have been impossible to administer any medicine to 
him. 

After giving him the closest attention for about two 
weeks, he began slowly to recover. 

I merely give this case, because I think it will be of 
iDenefit to some who may have horses afflicted in the 
same way. 



32 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

Distemper 

Is a disease that all horsemen are acquainted with, and 
is more prevalent among young horses than old ones. 
It is engendered by a change of stables and of air, and 
also by cold of any kind. It affects the larynx, and 
the membrane of the trachea. Distemper in most 
cases yields readily to treatment. I have used the 
following treatment with success: 

Chlorate of Potash 1 oz. 

Honey 1 pt. 

Mix well together and give a tablespoonful three 

times a day. Put it well back upon the tongue with 

a small paddle. Use the White Liniment on the glands 
of the throat, and keep the horse well clothed in a 
good, airy stall. Feed nothing but soft food, such as 
bran mashes with oats mixed in it. 

As a great many people think it necessary to smoke 
a horse that has distemper, I will give my mode of 
procedure. In my opinion, horses rarely ever derive 
any benefit from smoking; but if I were to smoke a 
horse, I would do away with the old practice of using 
leather, feathers and brimstone, as it is very offensive 
both to man and horse. I would prefer to use a medi- 
cated paper, as it is more simple, and if there is any 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. " 33^ 

virtue in smoking at all, the animal will receive more 
benefit from it than from the others. It is made by 
making a strong solution of salt pet re, and then soak- 
ing common brown paper in it for five minutes, dry it 
perfectly dry; when it is set on fire it will burn like a 
fuse, and the horse can be smoked with it very read- 
ily. I have also used an antiseptic and derived great 
benefit from it. The on:6 I use is made by taking one 
ounce of glycerine and adding twelve drops of carbolic 
acid, and by swabbing out the nostrils thoroughly, I 
generally bring the disease to a culmination, as this 
produces a free running at the nose. 



34 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Epizootic. 

This disease is of recent development, and was 
prevalent throughout the country in the last of the 
year 1872 and the first part of 1873. 

It was never known in America before the year of 
1872, but was in Germany in 1800. A German 
prophet foretold that epizootic would make its ap- 
pearance in America in the year 1872. I have but lit- 
tle faith in any prophecy, but strange to relate, this 
one was verified. 

I have never seen anything written on the subject 
of epizootic in any of the works on the diseases of 
the horse, except in a small volume published by 
Professor Rockwell, in which he makes a slight allu- 
sion to the disease, but does not expatiate on the sub- 
ject. 

It is a disease peculiar to itself, and coming upon 
the country very suddenly, it took all veterinarians 
by surprise. 

It was first observed in the Eastern States, and in 
the cities of New York and Boston; it traveled 
with rapidity, and like the "star of empire" 
took its way westward, never once stopping until 
it reached the Pacific shores. It was no respecter 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 35* 

of horses, and all, from the finest thoroughbred, 
down to the commonest scrub, suffered equally and 
alike. 

There was never known such a universal epidemic 
among horses, and the victims of this malady were 
not a few. There seemed to be no special cause 
for it, and it almost always made its appearance 
where it was least expected, and where the greatest 
pains had been taken to prevent it. Taken all in all, 
it caused one of the greatest sensations of the kind^ 
the country has ever known, and people were made 
to fully realize the value of the horse, as the business 
of the country was almost completely suspended. 

In regard to my own personal experience in epizoo- 
tic, and I can speak only from my own experience; I 
may say that I have treated scores of cases, among 
the most prominent was a Glencoe horse owned by 
Mr. Richard Anderson, a well known horseman of 
Xenia, Ohio. It was one of the most aggravated cases 
that I met in my travels. I found this animal's pulse 
beating- about eighty pulsations per minute; he was 
frothing at the mouth, and apparently so much 
choked up that it was extremely difficult for him to 
breathe. 



.36 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

I at once lowered his pulse by administering the 
following medicine; 

Tincture of Veratnim Viride . 2 oz. 

T incture Digitalis 1 oz 

Aconite ^ oz 

Putting a teaspoonful of the above mixture on his 
tongue every thirty minutes, for three doses, then 
stop four hours, then I waited for four hours, and 
then resumed the treatment. 

I cleansed his mouth with a solution of chlorate of 
potash, then made an external application of the Quick 
Cure on the glands of the throat, then I took 

Muriate of Iron 1 oz. 

Adding Quinine 10 gr. 

And gave him a teaspoonful every four hours; this re- 
lieved him in six hours, so that he was considered out 
of danger, and continued to grow better until he 
entirely recovered. But I cannot take all the credit 
to myself, for I must say that I have never met with 
a gentleman who took better care of an animal, than 
did Mr. Anderson take of this one, and of course, the 
recovery was due in some measure to the excellent 
nursing the horse received, as this is one of the essen- 
tials in treating any and all diseases. 

Should the epizootic become prevalent again, at any 
time, I should advise this same mode of treatment 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 37 

Some people think it is best to leave the disease to 
take its course, without the aid of treatment of any 
kind; but, as there are sometimes * serious conse- 
quences that follow it, and often the effects of a dis- 
ease are as injurious as the disease itself, I recom- 
mend the most skillful treatment. . 



^8 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

Bots. 

This is a subject that has puzzled the minds of a 
great many people, and there are a great many 
theories in reference to the origination of the bot. 
We know that all our scientific writers on the horse, 
claim that there is no such thing as the bot. They 
also add after giving the above opinion, that "you 
had better trust your horse to nature than to an ig- 
norant bot doctor." 

Some of these writers assert that the carbonic and 
oxygen gases of the stomach, through some cause, eat 
holes in the mucous membrane of the stomach, and this 
causes the death of the horse, that the people of differ- 
ent opinions, say died of bots. This view of the matter 
I think is improbable, though those gases may be taken 
up by absorption, and enter the circulation, and by 
poisoning the blood, death might be produced. 

Again, others say that a gad-fly flies in the field 
where the horses are in pasture, and as it flies, it 
lights upon the horse's legs and lays eggs. The horse 
nips oif these eggs, they pass through the mouth into 
the stomach, and in course of time, they hatch out 
into the bot. Now, it has been a question in my mind 
as to which one of these theories is correct. After 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE EOOK. 39 

considering the matter from all its points I have come 
to the conclusion, that the hot is born in the horse in 
the same way as worms are in children. Of course I 
give this as my opinion, for I do not desire to condemn 
any other opinions on the subject. 

Science has not yet decided what function bots per- 
form in the system, but my presumption is that they 
assist digestion. 

The bot is composed of nine hairy rings, and we 
have not a practitioner who can take his best scalpel 
cutting knife, and make an incision on one of them. 
They have no mouth, neither can they eat or drink, 
but they have the power of inhaling, and sustain life 
by inhalation. They hang by two little hooks in the 

tail, to the insensible coating of the stomach, and 
whenever the horse gets fermentation of the stomach, 
it causes them to bore into the mucous membrane, 
and this is frequently the cause of the horse's death. 
Many persons are misled in making a diagnosis of 
this disease, by thinking that because the horse looks 
around on each side of him he has the bots; as that is 
called, in all the schools pointing, but that is an erron- 
eous impression, and I consider it no guide in discov- 
ering the ailments of a horse. , 



40 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

SYMPTOMS. 

The most dependable symptoms of bots are as fol- 
lows: The horse is warm, extremities are warm, he 
switches his tail very frequently, and every third or 
fifth switch between his hind extremities. He stamps 
with his hind feet, lies down and rolls upon his back,, 
gets up and stamps again as if he was trying to kick 
his abdomen, pulse quick and irregular. 

CURE. 

One pint of linseed oil with one ounce of chloroform. 
Give as a drench. 

The linseed oil soothes all the inflamed parts, and 
the chloroform is as good a neutralizer as can be giv- 
en. The stomach being perfectly tight the chloro- 
form penetrates every part of it, and the bots inhale 
it and become so stupefied, that they let go their hold 
on the lining of the stomach, and fall down a dead 
mass. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 41 * 

The Colic. 

As this is a somewhat condensed description of the 
horse and his diseases, I hardly think it necessary to 
explain each and every disease separately, by entering 
into a discussion of the several varieties of colic that 
most horse doctors claim to exist. They generally 
take up two or three pages in explaining spasmodic 
colic, which is an occasional pain in the stomach and 
intestines. They then consume an equal amount of 
space in explaining flatulent colic, which is caused by 
generation of gases in the stomach and intestines, and 
inflammation of the bowels which is sloughing of the 
mucous membrane of the intestines, and of the colon, 

which is the large intestine near the right flank. 

One medicine reaches all of these diseases, and so it 
is unnecessary to make an elaborate explanation of 
them. But I will simply say, that the colic is brought 
on by hard driving immediately after being highly fed, 
and in many cases nature will throw off the disease 
without the assistance of any medicine whatever, and 
the less medicine you give your horse the better it will 
be for him, for all that medicine does is to assist nature 
and often nature will do the work alone. This is why 
so many simple medicines are recommended by the 



42 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

people at large; they being ignorant of the diseases 
peculiar to a horse, recommend a remedy of no value 
whatever in itself, nature does the work, while the 
medicine gets all the credit. 

The horse resembles the human family in some 
respects some are nervous, while others are -not. 
Some horses being only a little ailing, will act as if 
they are at the point of death, and their pulse would 
not be increased more than from fifteen to twenty 
beats per minute. Another horse not having the same 
temperament as the above mentioned, will almost suf- 
fer death, and give no sign of sickness. 

You must be governed entirely by the pulse of a 
horse in ascertaining whether he is in danger or not. 

Having had fifteen years experience in the treat- 
ment of the horse and his diseases, close observation 
has taught me, that in colic the best symptoms to be 
guided by are as follows: 

The pulse quick, ears cold, extremities cold, paws 
entirely with his fore feet, lies down, rolls, gets up 
and paws again, as before, more or less swollen. 

CURE. 

Laudanum 1^ oz. 

Tincture Assafoetida 2 oz. 

Sulphuric Ether .' 1 oz. 

Essence t)f Peppermint 1 oz. 

Warm Water ^ pt. 

Given as a drench. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 43 

This is a recipe that I have used with wonderful 

success. If the animal is not better in fifteen minutes 
repeat the dose, half size. Keep the horse in a warm 
stall, clothe him well and keep him as quiet as possi- 
ble. Another remedy that I have used with success 
when other medicines were not available is as follows. 

CURE. 

Bi Carbonate Soda 2 oz. 

Tincture Lobelia 1 oz. 

Warm Water 4 pt. 

Mix well together in the water, and give as a drench. 

There is still another remedy that I have derived 
great benefit from, when no medicines were to be 
had. This is to elevate the hind parts of the animal, 
for instance, lead him to a hill-side, and let him stand 
with his hind parts as high as possible. This position 
throws the pressure off the diaphragm. I have had a 
very sick horse, and put him in the above described 
position, and let him remain so, for about ten to fif- 
teen minutes, and then led him away entirely cured. 



44 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Fistula. 

This is an affection of the serrates major, a tendon 

situated directly under the scalpula, and acts as a 
saddle for the scalpula, to keep it from creating a 
friction. One of the most terrible mishaps a horse can 
meet with is to be attacked by fistula. It is brought 
on in various ways, kicks or bruises of any description 
or from any cause whatever they may happen, will 
bring on fistula, and when allowed to run on any 
length of time, it is one of the most obstinate diseases 
to cure that horse flesh is heir to. But if taken in 
time, when the pus is first discovered to rise to the 
surface of the skin, it is more easily managed than at 
. any other stage of the disease. 

Almost every one in giving a remedy for fistula, 
recommends making an incision into the parts affected 
in order to get rid of the pus, but I have found that 
after an incision is made it becomes a running sore, 
and almost baffles the skill of the best veterinary sur- 
geon in our land. 

As it is almost impossible to cure the disease before 
the pus is gotten rid of, by taking a case in time, I 
have invariably met with success, and I prefer having 
the pus pass by absorption without making an incision, 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 45 

but as it is a long and tedious process after running, 
and the horse being rendered useless during all this 
time, a man must be possessed of both patience and 
courage to treat this dreadful disease. 

TREATMENT. 

The treatment with which I have met the best suc- 
cess, consists in using very powerful medicines, and 
they must be used with the utmost care and caution. 
They are given immediately below: 

Turpentine 1 pt. 

Iodide of Mercury 1 oz. 

Mix the above together and apply sparingly to the 
parts affected with a feather, being careful not to 
get any on the hands. The horse's blood should be 
kept in good condition by feeding and alteratives. 

This remedy is to be used after the fistula has begun 
to run. ' 

I have another remedy to be used before the fistula 
has begun to run. It is always the better plan to 
commence in time, before it has gone so far as to re- 
quire opening, for then it is more easily driven away, 
and taken up by absorption in a shorter space of time. 
I use 

Turpentine 1 pt. 

Gum Camphor 4 oz. 

Tincture Cantharides 1 oz. 

Oil of Spike 1 oz. 



46 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Apply to the affected parts with a brush or swal), 
being careful not to get any of it on the hands. Ap- 
ply every morning until three applications are made, 
then wash off, and grease with lard, continue to re- 
peat the operation until a cure is effected. 

POLE EVIL. ^ 

This is an affection of the surrates minor. I find 
the diagnosis the same as, and the treatment similar 
to fistula. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 47 

The Eye. 

The eye is one of the most important organs con- 
nected with the horse. From the fact that when your 
horse goes blind he is almost worthless. It is one of the 
most delicate parts of the horse to be treated, and is 
in many cases seriously injured through the ignorance 
of the horse doctor by his blowing salt, pulverized alum: 
and other substances that are more or less hurtful to 
the eye, for it being a mucous membrane is easily 
irritated, and instead of irritating, the object in treat- 
ing the eye should be to allay all inflammation. 

There are a number of people who are under the im- 
pression that a horse has what is termed blind teeth. 

In my opinion that is one of the most erroneous ideas 
that any person can be possessed of. When the eye 
of a horse begins to be affected, the people who are 
laboring under this mistaken belief, take their animal 
forthwith to a blacksmith, and have him knock out with 
his hammer these so-called blind teeth, and if this pro- 
cess has the desired effect, and causes the inflammation 
of the eye to subside, they of course believe that the 
teeth were the cause, and the knocking out was the 
cure, when in reality the benefit that is derived from 
the knocking out of the teeth u simply because it 



48 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

makes a sore and that draws the inflammation from the 

eye to the gum, having the effect of a counter irritant. 

T here is no connection whatever between the teeth 

and the eye. The eye is a mucous membrane ruled by 

the optic nerve and that conveys the sense of sight to 

the brain. The anatomy and structure of the eye is 

the same in the horse as in the human family. The 

crystalline lens of the eye, the aqueous humor, the 

conjunctiva (delicate membrane that covers the front 
of the eye and the inside of the eyelids), and also the 
iris, a little curtain or network, extending from the 
interior of the first chamber of the eye to the cornea, 
is just the same in the horse as in the human family. 
In treating common inflammation of the eye, I use 
the following remedy: 

CURE. 

Raw Linseed Oil 1 oz. 

Sugar of Lead 4 gr. 

Sulphate of Zinc '. 2 gr. 

Apply to the eye with a feather, then bleed in the 
angular vein, that is the vein which is prominent on 
the face of the horse beneath the eye. 

OPHTHALMIA. 

Ophthalmia or what is more commonly called "moon 
eyes." I am not disposed to believe that any intelli- 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 49 

gent man thinks the planet called the moon, has any 
influence over the eye of the horse. This disease is 
known to scientific practioners as specific or peridois 
.ophthalmia. The cause of it is stoppage of the lach- 
rymal duct, through nature's neglect to do her duty. 
The lachrymal duct is the canal that conveys the 
moisture of the eye to the nostril. 

The first thing to be done in treating this disease is 
to open the lachrymal duct, that is done by the use of 
a small swab with a weak solution of tobacco, after 
which give the organ the same treatment as in com- 
mon inflammation. 

SCUMS AND FILMS OF THE EYE. 

Are sometimes exceedingly difficult to remove, but 
they have been successfully treated by using the 
above remedies. 

CATARACT. 

Another affection of the eye is called cataract. It 
affects the bottom of the crystalline lens, and it is 
beyond the skill of science to remove a cataract from 
the eye of a horse. 



50 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Spavin. 

This is an affection that is usually first observed ort 
the hock-joint of the horse, and is most generally per- 
ceptible when the horse first shows signs of lameness. 
There are two kinds of spavin, one kind comes on 
the top of the splint bone (which derives its name 
from the peculiar way in which it is fastened to the 
outer or shank bone) and is always cartilagenous. 

The other variety of spavin is caused by a bruise, 
kick, or sprain which affects the periosteum, and the 
synovia fluid oozes out sometimes, and forms a kind of 
cartilage which grows and becomes ossified. 1 here is 
nothing in the materia medica that will remove the 
ossification. All I claim to do is to take out the 
inflammation and cure the lameness, the enlargement 
must remain. 

The most reliable symptoms of spavin are as fol- 
lows: When you first commence to use your horse, if 
he is spavined, you will notice that he is very lame, 
after he is once warmed up to his work his lameness 
will diminish if not entirely disappear Then when 
you leave him to rest from his labor and he gets 
cooled off you will find that he goes lama again. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 51 

trj:atment. 

Turpentine i pt* 

Oil of Origanum 1 oz. 

Oum Camphor i oz. 

Pulverized Cantharides 1 dr. 

Gum Euphorbia ^ oz. 

Tincture Iodine ^ oz. 

' Apply to the parts affected for three successive 
mornings, then grease with lard for three mornings, 
after which wash off the lard, and apply the prepara- 
tion in the same manner until a cure is effected. 

RING-BONE 

r 

Is treated in the same manner as spavin. 



52 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Heaves. 

This is a disease that almost unfits a horse for any 
kind of service, and it is considered incurable as it is 
supposed to be an affection of the lungs; but, if a man 
takes a common-sense view of the matter, he will see 
at once, that if a horse's lungs were so affected it 
would be impossible to lead him eight or ten miles, 

much less work him, and make him draw heavy loads 
as many do. 

This fact proves to my mind that the disease is lo- 
cated in an entirely different organ. There is in the 
horse's throat a valve that is called the glottis. From 
some accident fhis valve gets irritated, and often it 
becomes so much lacerated that it becomes a running 
sore. After having discovered the seat of the dis- 
ease, we must then seek to remedy it. I have used 
the following remedy for heaves with much success: 

Balsam Copaiba 1 oz. 

of Peru Joz. 

Then add a sufficient quantity of prepared chalk to 
make ten pills; give one of these pills every morning. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 5SJ 

Stritig-Halt. 

String-halt is a disease of the horse that consider- 
ably depreciates him in value, and is also very detri- 
mental to his movements. It is considered incurable 
as scientific writers assert that it is an affection of the 
nerve that extends downward in the horse's hind ex- 
tremities. Now, reasoning from a common-sense 
point of view, if a man were to have an affection of 
the biceps muscle, the hand would have a tendency to 
draw towards the shoulder, and so we find on the 
hind-quarters of the horse a muscle that is termed the 
superior or major muscle, also the muscular biceps, so 
when these muscles are contracted they cause the 
horse to make an awkward spasmodic movement, just 
as the arm of a man does when the biceps muscle is-, 
similarly affected. 

In treating this ailment, we must relax the muscles. 
The remedy I use for doing this is given as follows:. 

cur:]]. 

Goose Grease 4 oz. 

Oil of Cajiput 1 oz. 

Make a mixture and apply to the parts affected. 

Allow me here to relate a remarkable instance of 
how a horse was cured of string-halt. 
A reliable gentleman residing in Lebanon, Ohio, 



54 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

asserts positively, that he thoroughly cured one of 
the worst cases of String-halt ever known, by simply 
saturating the muscles two or three times per day 
with common goose oil. The oil on account of its 
penetrating nature, affected the muscles in such a 
way as to relax them, and remove the disease. 

Another case that fell under my notice was an inci- 
dent related by a very reliable resident of Wabash, 
Indiana, in this case the String-halt was cured by 
the application of sweet oil. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 55 

Splint. 

This is a very common disease, and is known to all 
horsemen, who consider it a harmless malady, as the 
general opinion is that it entirely disappears without 
any treatment whatever between the ages of seven and 
nine; yet I have seen horses that were made of little 
account, comparatively, because of splint. 

The cause of this ossification growing on the cor- 
poral bone of the horse has never b3en saJsfactorily 
explained to me. My own idea of it is, that it is 
caused by the animal having received some unusual 
bruise from the kicks of another horse, or from a blow 
that has been given him, and it may arise from ^ 
bruise he has given himself while in the stall or past- 
ure. For that without a doubt would injure the per- 
iosteum, the fibrous membrane that covers the bones, 
and in my opinion conveys the nutrition to the bones. 

A bruise will affect the periosteum in such a manner 
as to cause an enlargement to grow under the surface of 
the skin. Sometimes splint grows on the parts of the leg 
where it interferes with the tendon and it may some- 
times be found immediately on the joint, and when it 
is on or over a joint it becomes necessary to place the 
horse under treatment to relieve it of lameness. 



56 T^E COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

The best application to be made for splint is given 
below. 

CURE. 

Tincture Iodine 1 oz. 

" Cantharides 1 oz. 

Gum Camphor J oz. 

Oil of Origanum 4 oz. 

Apply to the parts diseased for three mornings in 
succession, then grease with lard in the same manner, 
after which apply again until a cure is effected. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 57 

Acute Founder. 

In my opinion, there is no such thing as chest or 
water founder, and I think if any man will take a 
common-sense view of the matter (as the horse is 
comparative anatomy to the human family), he will 
find it is impossible for either man or beast to eat or 
drink so much as to make him lame. As founder in- 
variably ruins the feet, I have found, by close obser- 
vation, that the seat of the disease lies entirely in the 
feet. 

There are many horses in the country that are suf- 
fering from a disease known as hoof rot, and when a 
horse is foundered it is caused by over-eating and 
drinking when his feet are so diseased. The over-^ 
eating and drinking produces an inflammation whicb. 
settles in the feet, and that is founder. 

I always treat the fore-feet for founder and meet 
with success. By placing your horse's feet in water- 
that is as hot as he can bear, and letting them remain 
for six hours, being careful to keep up the tempera- 
ture of the water, even increasing it as he becomes 
accustomed to the heat, you will find him greatly im- 
proved at the end of the above specified time. 

After this, I use the Hoof Ointment, heating it into 



58 , THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

the bottom of the hoof with a hot iron, and im- 
mediate! y afterwards give the horse a physic. 



CHRONIC FOUNDER. 



This is an exceedingly difficult matter to remedy, 
for in many cases you will find that the hoof of the 
horse has grown entirely out of shape. The best 
treatment I have ever found is to take the horse to 
the blacksmith's shop, and have his feet trimmed 
down as low as possible, then use the Hoof Ointment 
on the bottom of the foot. When the shoe is nailed 
on, be careful not to have it drawn too tight. In 
the meantime feed him alteratives. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 59 

Tetanus or Lockjaw. 

This is one of the diseases of the horse that is most 
to be dreaded, as it is exceeding difficult to cure. For- 
tunately, it is of very rare occurrence in this country. 
It is caused by the injury of some nerve, and it is 
accompanied by the most excruciating pain. 

If any nerve is torn or lacerated it soon conveys 
the derangement throughout the entire nervous sys- 
tem and causes the contraction of every muscle. The 
horse's jaws become so much tightened that he fre- 
quently dies from want of nutrition, to support life; 
so, in many cases it is necessary to use clysters of 
cornmeal gruel every four or eight hours. This will 
afford some sustenance. 

The object in treating this disease is to relax the 
system, and this is the only .means by which a cure 
can be effected. For doing this I have, used the fol- 
lowing combination: 

Laudanum 1 oz. 

Tincture Assafoetida 2 oz. 

Sulphuric Ether 1 oz. 

Mix with half pint of warm water and give as a drench. 

LOCKJAW. 

I have used chloroform for relaxing the system with 
satisfactory results. I have used from one to three 



CO THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

ounces, by taking a sponge, and saturating it with 
the chloroform, and keeping it close to the animaFs 
nose until he is under the influence of it. Then I take 

Alcohol 1 pt. 

Capsicum 1 oz. 

Make a mixture, and rub his legs and also his spinal 
column. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 61 

Witid-Galls 

Come, usually, near to the pastern joint, and in most 
cases they do but little harm, except being an eye-sore 
to admirers ofhorse flesh; they depreciate the horse in 
value. 

Many claim to have a cure for wind-galls, but I 
have tried my utmost to remove these protuberances, 
and have failed to effect a positive cure. I have also 
spent large quantities of money in purchasing these 
pretended cures, and considerable time jn experi- 
menting with them, and all with no success. 

Some assert that fish-worm oil will remove wind 
galls, but I have found that it is composed of the com- 
monest of all oils, and there is no particular virtue in 
it. And I would advise all horse owners not to invest 
in these spurious remedies for wind galls, for it is sim- 
ply a waste of money. 

A wind-gall is a rupture of the little veins or sacks 
near the pastern joint. After these sacks or veins are 
broken, a yellowish water exudes, and this water in- 
closes itself in little sacks, called wind-galls, deriving 
their names from a former supposition that these sacks 
contained wind. It is almost impossible to remove 
them by absorptions. I have given temporary relief. 



62 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

f 

but have found that when the horse is put to hard 
work the wind-galls return. 

REMEDY. 

Pulverized Cantharides 1 dr. 

Tincture Iodine 1 oz. 

Oil of Spike -J oz. 

Sweet Oil 2 oz. 

Apply for three consecutive days, and grease after- 
wards to prevent the hair from being disturbed, after 
which wash clean and apply again; this process, to- 
gether with the use of a pad over the afflicted part, 
and a bandage used at night will so far remove the 
enlargement as to make it almost imperceptible. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 63 

WartSr 

These are small tumors of various shapes and sizes, 
that grow on the surface of the horse's skin, and are 
generally caused by high feeding and limited exercise. 
Young horses are more liable to have warts on them 
than older ones. There are two kinds of warts— seed 
warts and blood warts. 

Seed warts are srhall, and make their appearance on 
the nose and belly of the horse, growing in clusters 
and bunches. They have in them little grains, known 
by the name of ^'seeds." They are connected with the 
scarf-skin, and grow down towards the cellular mem- 
brane, from this they receive their growth, and each 
of these seeds has its origin in this membrane, which 

is called its root. The roots must be destroyed before 
warts can be removed. 

BLOOD WARTS 

Are of a more serious character than seed warts, as 
they are a growth of flesh from some membrane, and 
are filled with blood, which flows quite freely whenever 
they are much irritated. They are found on the hock 
and pastern joints more commonly than in any other 
place, and sometimes over the eye, but have no par- 
ticular settled location, and will spread and enlarge and 



64 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

when one makes its appearance there are many to f ol- 
low. Sometimes they are found hanging by stems. 
These are more easily removed than the others, for a 
tight ligature can be placed around them, which severs 
them from the body. After they have been cut off, I 
touch the diseased parts with nitrate of silver. 

CURE FOR WARTS. 
Apply Nitrate of Silver. 

GRAPE LEGS. 

This disease is commonly known to farmers and 
others as big, or milk leg, and is brought about by 
some bruise, kick, or cut, and also by the animal re- 
ceiving a poisonous bite or sting. Any one of these 
causes will produce an enlargement, and the leg be- 
comes so much swollen that the cuticle, or outer skin 
breaks. 

I have never been able to discover a remedy to pre- 
sent to the public, and there is no remedy except an 
external application. Great benefit may be derived 
from using any good liniment that will act as a liquid 
bandage. This disease renders the animal almost use- 
less and worthless, and as there can be no permanent 
cure, there is not much use to waste time and money 
on it. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 65 

Sweetly or Swiniiy. 

This is a derangement of the muscles directly over 
the scapula or shoulder blade. It may be occasioned 
in different ways. For instance, if a horse gets his 
foot injured, he will most naturally hold it in such a 
position that it will be shielded from bearing any of 
his weight, and this disuse of the muscles will cause 
them to shrink or wither. Also, young horses when 
put to heavy drawing, that they are not accustomed 
to, will, by over exertion, sprain the ligaments and 
muscles of the shoulder, and this causes sweeny. 

As there is no treatment except external applica- 
tions, I use the following: 

Oil of Spike 1 oz. 

Oil of Amber 1 oz. 

Turpentine 2 oz. 

Linseed Oil ^ pt. 

Make a mixture and apply to the parts affected for 
three days; grease for three days, then wash off and 
apply as before, until a cure is effected. 

HIP-SWEENY. 

As hip-sweeny is of rare occurrence, and as it is sim- 
ilar in its nature to the sweeny above described, and 
known by the lameness of the horse, and shrinking 



66 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

of the hips, it must be treated in all cases like sweeny 
in the shoulder. 

SIT-FASTS. 

A sit-fast is a small lujnp that comes between the 
flesh and the outer skin, and is caused from saddle 
and collar galls. The easiest way to remove them is 
to use a sharp knife, as they don't yield readily to 
medicine. 

I take the lump between my thumb and fingers, and 
make two incisions across the top of it, and with a 
slight pressure upon it, it will come out. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE, BOOK. 67 

Worms. 

There are many varieties of worms in the horse, 
and they are not detrimental to his physical condition 
unless there is too great an accumulation of them. 
First, we have the white worms, and they are from 
eight to ten inches long, and are most generally found 
in the intestines. 

Then v/e find a darker colored and smaller worm, 
commonly called the "needle worm." This kind is 
usually found in the horse's intestines, and they some- 
times descend mto the rectum in large numbers. This 
gives rise to an irritation which causes the disease 
known as rubbing the tail. 

When a horse is diseased with worms, he is poor in 
flesh, his hide is tight, the hair stands upright over his 
body, and sometimes these worms pass from him. A 
horse can never be put in ^ood condition while he is 
afflicted with too great an accumulation of worms. 

CURE. 

Santonine = 25 gr. 

Linseed Oil 1 oz. 

Tinct. Rhei 1 oz. 

Mix and divide into three equal parts, and give in 
doses four hours apa^jt. After which the horse should 
be given one pint of linseed oil. 



^8 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

ANOTHER RECIPE FOR WORMS. 

Powdered Areca Nut— Give one teaspoonful morn- 
ing and evening; two doses will be sufficient. After 
which the animal should be given a pint of oil to work 
off the medicine. 

RUBBING THE TAIL. 

As. said before, the cause of this disease originates 
from worms. Many are mistaken in thinking it is a 
humor of the tail, when it is only the worms that irri- 
tate the rectum. 

CURE. 

Inject a Solution of Sulphuric Ethor. 

If this does not allay the irritation, it is simply an 
irritation of the anus, and it needs to be greased 
thoroughly with citrate ointment. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 69 

Stable Galls, 

These come on the elbow, and are caused by the 
position in which the horse lies in resting, as he places 
his foot in such a way that it brings the pressure of 
the foot so that it rests upon the affected parts. 

In order to effect a cure, it is necessary to commence 
treatment when the galls are first noticed, as you will 
find them quite obstinate to cure after they have 
been neglected for a length of time. 

By using a strong liniment I disperse the watery 
substance that has accumulated, and as this applica- 
tion makes a sore that is tender to the touch, the ani- 
mal will naturaly change his position so that his foot 
will not touch and irritate the tender part. 

CURE. 

Use the Spavin liniment, and sometimes it is neces- 
sary to put in a rowel. 



70 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Enlarged Hock 

Is brought on by the animal being bruised or sprained, 
and if left too long, is very hard to remove, as it is of 
a callous nature. If taken when hurt, and bathed 
with warm water, there will be a great benefit de- 
rived; after which make a liniment of 

Oil of Sassafras . . . 1 oz. 

Spirits of Camphor 1 oz. 

Belladonna J oz. 

Turpentine "2 oz. 

Sweet Oil ^ oz. 

And apply to the parts affected. 

CORNS 

affect the foot of the horse, and are usually found on 
the inside quarter. The principal cause of corns is 
bad shoeing, or leaving the shoe remain on the foot 
too long. They are exceedingly painful to the animal, 
causing him to favor the foot and go lame, and they 
give the owner considerable annoyance. 

TREATMENT. 

The shoe should be. removed, and the part of the 
hoof that is situated over the corn should be pared 
down until the corn is reached, after which apply the 
hoof ointment. 



IIIE COMMON-SEXSE HOHSE TOOK. 71 

Farcy. 

This disease is to be found in horses that have been 
neglected in their keeping. It is considered by some 
to be contagious; as it is generally connected with 
glanders; Hut I have known a great many cases where 
glanders was not associated with it. I presume it to 
be an affection of the blood. It makes its appearance 
on the horse's neck, hips, belly and legs, and forms it- 
self into little pustules, from which a yellowish water 
exudes. As a general thing, before these little pus- 
tules form, the animal suffers from loss of appetite 
and becomes somewhat debilitated. 

The best and surest way of managing this disease is 
to keep the animal to himself as much as possible, and 
the treatment would have to be that of purifying the 
blood. The first thing to be done will be to give the 
horse a very strong physic; this may be done by dis- 
solving one ounce of aloes in a pint of warm water, 
and putting this in a quart of linseed oil, and giving 
it as a drench. The horse should be turned out on 
grass if convenient, and if not, he should have from 
two to three bran mashes per week, for this will act 
as a relaxative, and is made by taking a third of a 
bucket of wheat bran, and adding one tablespoonf ul of 



72 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

sulphur; then scald the bran with boiling water, tak- 
ing care to cover tightly so the steam will not escape. 
Let it stand six hours then it will be ready for use. 
The horse should also be fed on condition powders. 
These directions followed closely will effect a cure. 



THE COMMON SENSE JIORSE BOOK. 73 

Glanders. 

This disease is pronounced incurable by every one; 
therefore I shall attempt no treatment. It is an af- 
fection of the membrane of the nostril, the same as 
catarrh in the human family, and is considered conta- 
gious; but this is an unsettled question in my mind, 
as I have known horses to work for months beside 
thi's disease, and to be fed out of the same trough 
from which horses diseased with glanders had eaten, 
and never have the disease. 

As glanders affects the constitution more or less, 

the treatment will have to be constitutional. In many 
cases momentary relief may be given, by syringing 
the nostril with a solution of Tanin; at the same time 
giving the horse tonics; and as I consider the malady 
incurable I will give no remedy for the cure of it. 



/4 THE COMMOxN-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Surfeit 

Is an afTection of the skin. It is by no means a danger- 
ous disease, as all horses are liable to becdme surfeited. 
It makes its appearance most generally when the 
horse is thin in flesh, and the hair and skin are ex- 
posed to the weather, when the blood is impure and 
there is an unhealthy condition of the entire system. 
It is occasioned by neglect and I have known horses 
to become surfeited, that have had the best of treat- 
ment. 

This disease is first noticeable on the shoulders, hips 
and bell}^ Little pustules appear on the surface, and 
from these exudes a whitish-like m^atter; it escapes in 
small quantities and forms into, little scabby excre- 
sences, and these become sore. 

TREATMENT. 

It is not necessary to place the horse under any 
special treatment, as a blood purifier of any descrip- 
tion, will allay the inflammation. In very obstinate 
cases, the remedy for scratches may be used. 



THE COMMON SENSE HORSE BOOK. 75 

^ Gravel. 

This disease is first discovered in the kidneys and 
bladder. The gravel- stones, or calculi, are more fre- 
quently found in the bladder, although in my opinion 
they exist there as secondary results. They first form 
in the kidneys and pass into the bladder while quite 
small; they continue to grow and enlarge until they 
are of a considerable size. 

When these stones ar-e somewhat large, they can be 
discovered by introducing the hand into the rectum 
and pressing the bladder, which is situated immedi- 
ately underneath. In this way the calculi can be 
easily detected. 

- During the existence of this malady, the animal 
suffers the most acute pain. But fortunately this 
disease is of rare occurrence among horses. The 
symptoms are similar to those of stalling. 

CURE. 

Fluid Extract Buchii 1 oz. 

Tinct. Hydrangea 1 oz. 

Give a tablespoonful three times per day until the 
animal is relieved. 



76 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Inflaitiinfitioii of the Brain « 

Is a disease that is of rare occurrence in the horse 
family. I have had several cases to come under^ my 
observation, and have had one or two that were in an 
almost hopeless condition. These horses I found were 
drooping their heads almost to the ground, and were in 
a staggering condition. The pulse v/as irregular. In 
such cases I find blood letting necessary. 

I at once took a gallon and a half of blood, and ad- 
ministered a severe cathartic, composed of one ounce 
of Aloes dissolved in a pint of warm water, and to this 
I added one quart of Linseed Oil. This combination 
relaxed the system, and gave relief in twenty-four 
hours. The horse speedily recovered without any 
further treatment. 



THE COMMON-SENSK HORSE BOOK. 77 

Blind Staggers. 

I have been called upon to treat but few eases of 
this malady as it is rarely met with in the Northern 
States. But I have treated cases in which the symp- 
toms were synonymous with those of blind staggers. 
I found the animal in a reeling, staggering condition, 
appearing to have no control over his actions. 

METHOD OF TREATMENT. 

I immediately opened the jugular vein and extracted 
about a gallon and a half of blood. Allow me to re- 
mark here that, in my general practice, I do not ap- 
prove of blood letting, but in this case it seemed to be 
necessary to do so. 

After bleeding the horse, I adminstered a strong 
cathartic, using one quart of linseed oil, and after dis- 
solving one ounce of Aloes in a pint of warm water, I 
added it to the oil. In this way I relieved the animal 
in from twelve to twenty-four hours. 



► 78 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Curb, 

This is a derangement of the sheath— that is, the 
inner wall of the skin, the skin being composed of 
three walls. Th rough some mishap, the inner wall 
becomes broken, and this allows the tendon to project 
so much that it produces an enlargement. 

To remove this, anything can be used that will act 
as a liquid bandage; and curb can be cured if taken 
in time, letting the horse have perfect rest. 

CURE. \ 

Gum Camphor 2 oz. 

Belladonna J oz. 

Turpentine 4 oz. 

Pulverized Cantharides 1 dr. 

• Pulverize the Gum Camphor, mix with lard suffi- 
cient to make a paste; then add the remainder of the 
ingredients, and apply to parts affected for three 
days; grease for three times, then wash off and apply 
again, until a cure is effected. 
In obstinate cases use same remedy as for spavin. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 79 

Lampas. 

This disease is commonly met with in young horses, 
and is of no serious consequence, as it is only an in- 
flammation of the bars of the roof of the mouth, 
which nature has placed there to assist the tongue in 
conveying the food back for the teeth to masticate. 

This disease may be remedied very easily by taking 
a small sharp knife and scarifying the bars, being care- 
ful not to cut too deep, as an artery lies near to the 
surface, this will allay the inflammation. 



80 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Hideboutid. 

This is a disease caused by the closing of the pores 
of the skin. The hide adheres to the ribs, and the 
hair is deprived of its glossy color, and is no longer 
smooth as it is natural for it to be in health. 

My opinion is that this is a disease of the skin, or of 
the entire system of the horse. To accomplish a cure 
it is necessary to renovate the system and purify the 
blood; this may be done by giving two ounces of Al- 
oes dissolved in a pint of warm water, and mix with 
one pint of Sv/eet Oil. 

Then feed the Condition Powders. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 81 

Suppression of Urine or Stalling. 

This disease may be occasioned by stricture of the 
urethra, or by the inflammation of the neck of the 
bladder. But let it originate from whatever cause it 
may, it is necessarily exceedingly painful. 

The symptoms are very similar to those of Inflam- 
mation of the Bowels, and Stone in the Bladder, and 
any one might be mistaken in distinguishing between 
them. The principal symptoms are seen in the general 
uneasiness of the animal, and the frequent repitition 
of the actions of an aninfal desiring to urinate. 

TREATMENT. 

Tincture Uva Ursi 1 oz. 

Extract Fluid Buchu 1 oz. 

Make a mixture and give a tablespoonful three 
times per day. 



82 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Thutnps. 

This is a disease witli which all veterinariaiis are 
acquainted, although few of them know the real origin 
of it. 

My idea of this malady is that it is situated in the ' 
pulmonary artery; the one that conveys the blood 
from the right ventricle to the lungs. Through some 
derangement, the walls of the artery become thickened 
and enlarged; this seriously obstructs the natural cir- 
culation of the blood. When the horse has been over- 
worked and overheated, the* heart is made to beat 
faster, and the blood is so much excited that it passes 
through this channel or artery at a very much in- 
creased speed, this disorders the circulation, and gives 
to the disease known as thumps. 

It is not prevalent in any particular class of horses, 
although I find that horses that have a full supply of 
blood suffer more frequently from it than those that 
are thin blooded. 

There is no permanent cure for this disease, although 
the animal can be relieved to some extent, by placing 
five drops of Aconite on the tongue, and if the animal 
is not relieved by the first dose, repeat the dose at 
intervals of from thirty to sixty minutes until there is 



THE COMMON-SENSiE HORSE BOOK. 83 

a change for the better perceived. I have never 
known this to fail in from one to two doses. 

BLOOD OR BOG-SPAVIN. 

My opinion is that this disease is caused by the 
breaking of the httle veins, this produces a lameness, 
and fornis what veterinary surgeons call ^ 

THOROUGH PIN. 

This is in most cases incurable, and as I think use- 
less for a man to spend his time and money, without 
deriving any benefit. I therefore give no positive 
cure. The remedy advised in curing spavin, will 
remove lameness, but it will do nothing more. 



84 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Stifle. 

A sprain of the ligaments that connect the femur 

with the tibia bone, is commonly termed stifle, and is 
brought on by some unusual exertion of the horse. It 
is considered a very serious variety of lameness, but 
if taken in time it is easily remedied. Some opinions 
on the subject of th^ stifle are that the tibia bone is 
thrown out of joint, but it would be impossible to do 
this, unless the ligaments were torn sufl^ciently to al- 
low the bone to protrude, and this being done, in 
nine cases out of ten, tetanus or lock-jaw would en- 
sue. Experience has taught me that it is nothing 
more than a severe sprain, and if taken in time it can 
be remedied by the use of the following: 

One ounce of gum camphor, pulverized, and suffi- 
cient lard to make a thick paste; to this add one 
ounce of Aconite. Apply to the affected parts and 
heat in with a hot iron. 

Repeat until three applications have been made. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 85' 

Big Head 

Is a disease rarely known in the Northern States, 
though it prevails to some extent in the South. Some 
claim that it originates entirely from the teeth; others 
claim that it is in the blood. My opinion is that it 
is in the blood, judging from the actions and appear- 
ance of the horse. When a horse has an attack of 
big-head, he becomes stiff apparently from a contrac- 
tion of the muscles; he also becomes thin and poor in 
flesh; seems to droop, and is very sluggish in his 
movements. 

In order to effect a cure it will be necessary to 
treat the blood; this can be done by giving strong 
purgatives, followed by feeding the Condition Pow- 
ders. On the nasal bone there will be found an en- 
largement, which must be treated with the following 
medicine: 

Linseed Oil 1 pt. 

Oil of Spike 1 oz. 

Turpentine 2 oz. 

Pulverized Cantharides 1 dr. 

Apply to the affected parts; heat in with a hot iron 
for three days; then grease for three, wash off, and 
apply as before. 



8() THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Rheumatisfti 

Is supposed to be common among horses; but I have 

met with very few cases during my fifteen years' 
practice. If you take the opinion of the inexperi- 
enced in the matter, almost every case of cramps 
would be rheumatism. If a horse is affected with 
rheumatism, his joints will necessarily be affected, and 
is accompanied by the most severe pain. 

Rheumatism is caused by exposure and neglect, 
and it often affects the shoulders in such a manner as 
to render them useless. 

TREATMENT OF RHEUMATISM. 

The first treatment must be to relax the entire sys- 
tem; this is done by dissolving one ounce of Aloes in 
a pint of warm water, and mix this with a pint of lin- 
seed oil. 

GIVE AS A DRENCH. 

Bathe the affected parts in a mixture made as fol- 
lows: 

Goose Grease 4 oz. 

Oil of Cajiput 1 oz. 

Oil of Cedar 4 oz. 

Chloroform 4 oz. 

Spirits of Camphor 4 oz. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HOUSE BOOK. 87 

Cramps, 

This is a disease of the horse that is caused by over 

exertion or by sprains of some kind. It is a contrat?- 

tion of the muscles of the leg; and is sometimes occa- 
sioned by the horse being stabled in a small, narrow 
stall, which compels him to stand in an uncomfortable 
position. This position has a tendency to. contract the 
muscles and render them unpliable, and they refuse 
to act, because the blood has not been allowed to cir- 
culate freely. After the nerves are brought into action 
the animal seems unable to control the muscles, and 
they jerk and move in a very disagreeable manner. 

Cramps are similar to rheumatism, and painful in 
the extreme, sometimes resulting in lameness. The af- 
fected muscle may be discovered, by close examina- 
tion, and a pressure of the hand on the tender part, as 
the horse will flinch and shrink from the touch of the 
hand. 

TREATMENT. 

Sweet Oil 2 oz. 

Gum Camphor \ oz. 

Cajiput J: oz. 

Belladonna 4 oz. 

Rub in well with the hands. 



88 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Weakness Across the Loitis 

Is sometimes termed inflammation of the kidneys; it 
is occasioned by some sprain, ox by the derangement 
of the urinary organs. 

SYMPTOMS. 

The symptoms of this disease are as follows: when 
the pressure of the hand is put upon the horse's back, 

he will be seen to shrink and bend as if. it gave him 
pain. He also when walking, has a dragging manner 
of gait, as if it required great exertion on his part to 
use his hind extremities. 

TREATMENT. 

This disease requires treatment in its earliest stages; 
as it always unfits a horse for use, and when of long 
standing it is difficult to manage. Make an applica- 
tion of the White Liniment directly over the loins. 
Then make a mixture of 

Balsam Copaiba 1 oz. 

Fluid Extract Buchu 1 oz. 

Add one tablespoonful of water and give it three 
times per day^^ 



TilE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 89 

Thick Wind. 

This name is applied to an ailment of the horse, 
when he experiences a difficulty in breathing. I have 

known some horse to make a sort of gargling sound 
in their nostrils; others breathe as if they had a thick- 
ening of the membrane of the trachea, or an affection 
of the bronchial tubes. This thickening accompanies 
various diseases, such as distemper, lung fever, etc., 
etc. In some cases of lung fever, parts of the lungs 
thicken or become hepatized, and the cells are closed, 
this would naturally cause quick and hard breathing. 
Some claim that tight reining is the cause of thick 
wind, but be that as it may, in my opinion tight rein- 
ing is in itself cruelty to a horse, and deserves cen- 
sure on all occasions. 

CURE FOR THICK WIND. 

Make an application of the quick cure on the 
glands of the throat. 



90 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Wounds. 

As it is not an unusual thing for horses to become 
wounded, by being kicked or hurt in such a manner 

as to lacerate the skin and make it necessary to put 
in sutures, it will not be amiss to give the mode of 
procedure. 

I first cleanse the wound perfectly, then I prepare a 
suture of about five threads of saddler's silk, well 
waxed, pass the sutures through the lips of the wound, 
draw them together and tie the thread tight. The 
sutures must be put in about two inches apart, as there 
must be space enough between them to allow of sup- 
puration. 

It is the best to have the wound to heal by the first 
intention; this may be done by applying the carbolic 
oil. This is a combination of 

Sweet Oil 1 oz. 

Carbolic Acid 2^^ gi'- 

An application of this kind sets up a healthy gran- 
ulation, and is one of the best combinations known ia 
the profession. 



TJIE COMMON-SENSE HOKSE BOOK. V) L 

Coughs and Bad Colds/ 

The organs of respiration are oftentimes affected by 

a cough, which is caused by the inflammation and irri- 
tation of the throat, trachea and lungs; sometimes this 
cough is occasioned by the horse having taken cold, 
and as the throat and lungs bacome inflamed and 
tender, the inhalation of cold air will have a tendency 
to irritate them and produce a cough. This cough or 
eold should have immediate attention, for if it is neg- " 
lected it may be productive of serious results. 

There is in the throat and lungs, when in a perfect* 
healthy condition, a vapor or moisture, v/hen these 
organs become dry and inflamed, they are easily 
irritated, because the requisite moisture does not ex- 
ist as it should, and the cold air passing through them, 
in this condition, causes a disagreeable sensation, and 
the animal coughs to relieve it; this coughing irritates 
the throat still more, and the longer it is neglected, 
the more troublesome it becomes. So it is better that 
the animal should receive prompt attention in order 
to prevent the ailment developing into an incurable 
disease. 



92 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

TREATMENT. 

My mode of treating a cough is as follows: 

Dover Powders 5 gi"- 

Quinine 6 gr. 

Ipecac 2 gr. 

A mixture of the above ingredients should be 
placed on the animal's tongue, three times per day. If 
there is any contraction of the lungs, this will relax 
the air cells. Then take one pint of molasses, and 
add one ounce of chlorinated potash, and place one 
teaspoonf ul on the tongue three times per day. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 93 

Scratches 

Are caused many times by neglect and bad manage- 
ment in leaving a horse stand over night with mud on 
his legs, and leaving him in a foul stable; this is also 
the cause of hoof rot. Scratches is not a constitu- 
tional disease but merely a malady pertaining to the 
cuticle. 

Cleanliness is one of the most essential features in 
curing this or any other skin disease. By washing 
the legs of the animal with warm water, and using 
castile soap freely, rubbing them until quite dry; and 
then by making the following application you will 
remedy the disorder. 

CURE. 

Pulverized Brimstone 1 oz. 

Common Gun Powder ^ oz. 

Add lard sufficient to make a thick paste and apply 
freely. . 



94 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

Scours* 

This disease is occasioned by a horse being fed a 
larger quantity of>©ats than he is in the habit of eating, 
and then driven immediately afterwards, or it may be 
brought on by exercising a horse too freely when his 
bowels are in a relaxed condition. Either of these 
causes will produce an irritation of the bowels and a 
derangement of the gastric juices of the stomach. It 
is often accompanied by the most severe pain, and 
sometimes becomes a very serious affair and even ends 
in death. 

Many people have no idea of the cause and nature 
of this disease and are unable to prescribe for it. The 
object in treating this disease is to neutralize the 
gastric juices of the stomach and allay the pain, to do 
this, the remedy is as follows: 

Tincture Rhubarb 2 o^- 

Spirits Camphor J 02;. 

Tincture Opium 2 dr. 

Chloroform 2 dr. 

Give a tablespoof ul of this mixture three times a 
day. I have never known this to fail. The fourth 
dose in most cases effects a cure. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE ROOK. 95 

-Giving Medicine, or How to Drench a 

Horse. 

Giving medicine is one of the most difficult tasks 
that horsemen have in treating diseases, as they use 
the old method of pulling the horse's head up into an 
unnatural position, then introducing a long-necked 
bottle into his mouth, and pouring down some nostrum 
faster than the horse can swallow; this causes a por- 
tion of it to be forced into the trachea or wind-pipe, 
and brings on strangulation and a severe spell of 
coughing, and sometimes leaves serious consequences, 
#as the coughing proves to be lasting and difficult to 
remove. 

By a close application to the study of nature and 
the natural motions of a horse, I have found a far 
better way, by which a boy twelve years old may 
drench a horse more easily than three or four stout 
men can by the old fashioned way. 

After having my medicine prepared in a half pint 
ot pint flask, I stand on the right side of the horse, 
take him by the bridle with the left hand, then insert 
the neck of the bottle in his mouth, just back of the 
front teeth, letting it extend far enough in to reach 
the tongue. 



96 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

Then pour the medicine from the bottle into the 
mouth, no faster than the horse can swallow it. By 
using this method you will find that a horse will take 
any kind of medicine without the slightest hesitation. 

This will look very simple to any person who has 
never given medicine in this way; but after having 
tried it once the old method will be entirely discarded. 
This is the only common-sense way to give medicine 
to a horse. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 97 

Horse Powders, 

As horse powders are something that is in general 
use, I have thought it necessary to give one. Know- 
ing the value of a good powder, I have used my ut- 
most exertion to make a combination that would be of 
benefit to the horse. The properties of this powder 
are both tonic and relaxative, and a trial of them will 
only prove their excellence. The ingredients are as 
follows: i 

Powdered Gentian 4 oz. 

*' Peruvian Bark 2 oz. 

Rhei J OZ. 

Sub-Carbonate Ferri 1 oz. 

Yellow Koot 1 oz. 

Mix a teaspoonful with the horse's feed, morning 
and evening, for ten days. 

In any case of anaemia, which always occurs after 
a severe attack of lung fever and quinsy, it will be 
found to be unequaled for bettering the horse's con- 
dition; and in any case where the object is to improve 
the condition of, and fatten a horse, they are unsur- 
passed. 

CONDITION POWDERS. 

Pulverized Stramonia Seed 1 oz. 

Sulphur i ^• 

Give a light teaspoonful every other day for two 
weeks. This will be found valuable, if given during 
an attack of farcy, surfeit, etc. 



98 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Liniment for Sore Rftcks and Shoulder 

Galls. 

The object in treating these ailments is to take out 
the soreness and soften the parts affected. This . is 
done by making a mixture of 

Sweet Oil 2 oz. 

Gum Camphor J oz. 



Cure for Sprains. 

All sprains should have immediate attention and the 
utmost care, for often a sprain that is considered of no 
importance at the time it occurs, will develop into a 
serious affair, and will render a horse useless for weeks. 
But when judiciously treated in the commencement, 
is very easily cured. 

It is very common for people to apply hot stimulat- 
ing liniments. This should never be done until the 
inflammation is allayed. The best way is to bathe the 
horse's leg in warm water, and rub the leg well with 
castile soap, until it is well soaped. This bathing 
should be continued for about an hour, and followed 
up until the inflammation subsides, and after each 
bathing apply the following liniment: 

Turpentine 4 oz. 

Spirits Camphor 1 oz. 

Chloroform 1 oz. 

Oil of Cedar 4 ^z. 

Aconite J oz. 

Sweet Oil 2 oz. 

This treatment, with close attention, will cure a 
sprain almost immediately. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 99 

Quick Cure. 

Spirits Camphor 1 oz. 

Chloroform 1 oz. 

Oil of Cedar i oz. 

Oil of Sassafras. 1 oz. 

Oil of Oraganum 4 ^z. 

Oil of Cloves . . . i oz. • 

Turpentine . . ._, i oz. 

Aqua Ammonia i oz. 

Sulphuric Ether 1 oz. 

Oil of Cajiput 4 oz. 

Sweet Oil 4 oz. 

Belladonna J oz. 

This liniment will be found to be one of the most efficient 
of all liniments for bruises, and it is as excellent when used in 
the human family for aches and pains, as in the horse when 
used for bruises. 



Black Liniitient, 

Turpentine 4 pt- 

Fish Oil ^1 pt. 

Oil of Spike 1 oz. 

Oil of Vitriol 1 oz. 

Mix the first three ingredients, then add the oil of vitriol 
slowly and with caution. This liniment is a good remedy when 
used on any old chronic running sores, such as fistula, etc. 
WHITE LINIMENT. 

Alcohol 1 pt. 

Turpentine 1 pt. 

Corrosive Sublimate 1 oz. 

Sjiirits of Ammonia 1 oz. 

Oil of Oraganum 1 oz. 

Tincture of Cantharides 1 oz. 

Mix the Corrosive Sublimate and Alcohol in a mortar, and 
then add the others. 

This liniment is used in all swellings, such as distemper and 
quinsy, etc. 

» LofC. 



100 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Salve for Fresh Cuts and Wouiids. 

Take a gallon of jimpson leaves and pods, add one gallon of 
water, boil these down to one pint. Strain the liquid off and 
add 

Rosin 1 oz. 

Honey 1 oz. 

And mutton tallow sufficient to make it into a thick paste; 
then simmer over a slow fire — being careful not to burn it — 
until it is thoroughly mixed. This makes one of the besfc 
salves that can be made either for man or beast; and where 
once used, is always used again. 

RECIPE FOR CUTS AND WOUNDS OF ANY DESCRIPTION. 

I derive more benefit from the use of the carbolized oil than 
from any other medicine I have used for w^ounds in horseflesh. 
This is made by taking 

Sweet Oil 2 oz. 

Carbolic Acid . 20 gr. 

These two ingredients, added together, act as a disinfectant; 
at the same time cause the wound to heal more quickly than 
any other application. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 101 

Litiimeiit for Stiff Joints atid Shoulders. 

Oil of Spikenard 1 oz. 

" Oraganum 1 oz. 

" Tar 1 OZ. 

Pulverized Salt Petre 1 oz. 

Oil of Turpentine 1 oz. 

Alcohol 2 pts. 

HOOF OINTMENT. 

Turpentine 4 oz. 

. Sweet Oil 4 oz. 

Gum Camphor J oz. 

Oil of Spike 1 oz. 

Corrosive Sublimate J oz. 

Apply to the hoof with a sponge. 



102 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Coffiti-Boiie. 

This is the first bone of the fore-foot, aud lies entirely en- 
closed in the outer wall of the hoof, to which it is fitted. It 
is a spongy substance, and porous enough to allow the blood 
to circulate through it freely into the foot, which would be im- 
possible if it were otherwise constructed. It also serves as a 
protection for the blood vessels, and prevents the blood from 
becoming obstructed in its passage through the foot. 

It is very peculiar in its construction, and is hollowed out 
to fit the inside sole of the foot. There are small fibres that 
project from the coffin-bone, whenever these fibres receive an 
injury, the synovia fluid settles down into a bony enlargement; 
this will gradually increase, and will first be perceived at the 
edge of the hoof. It sometimes extends around the hoof, then 
it is called ring-bone. 

The coffin-bone is often used as a cloak by the inexperienced 
horse doctor, for when a horse is suffering from lameness, and 
the doctor not knowing where to locate the disease, will almost 
invariably decide that the coffin-bone is diseased; when it is a 
very difficult matter for an old experienced veterinarian to as- 
certain to a certainty, w^hether the coffin-bone is affected or 
not. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE KOOK. 103 

Hoof-Rot, 

This is a disease quite prevalent throughout the 
country, and many horses are affected with it with- 
out the knowledge of the owners. It is engendered 
by bad stable management and neglect; this also is 
the cause of many other derangements to which 
horses are subject. The disease may be known by 
the white, chalky substance that forms in the bottom 
of the foot. Many horse owners do not make a prac- 
tice of examining their horse's feet, and often this 
disease gains considerable headway before it is discov- 
ered. When it is ascertained that a horse has hoofr 
rot he should receive immediate attention, as it often 
engenders other diseases. It may be_- remedied ^ by 
paring the foot out as much as possible, and then ap- 
plying the Hoof Ointment once a day until the foot 
is cured. 



104 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Thrush, 

This is a disease of the frog, and may be known by 
the offensive matter that comes from the frog, or heel. 
Unless the owner of the animal is a close observer of 
his horse's feet this disease may become considerably 
aggravated before he is made aware of it. 

It is engendered in most cases by the horse stand- 
ing in a damp and neglected stable; or, through some 
injury done in the frog. A horse that has proper at-- 
tention in every respect will never have the thrush. 

CURE. 

Oil of Oraganum ^ oz. 

Turpentine 1 oz. 

Honey - J oz. 

Gum Camphor = : i oz. 

Sweet Oil 4 oz. 

Apply to the bottom of the foot every night. 



THE COMMON SENSE HORSE BOOK. 105 

Cracked Hoofs 

are occasioned by some old chronic disease that has 
caused the hoof to dry, and become so hard that it 
cracks. It is sometimes caused by the decay of the 
sole of the foot. The fore feet are more liable to crack 
than the hind ones. Sometimes founder, and narrow 
heel . will produce a dryness and contraction that 
causes the hoof to split. These cracks, or splits, have 
no precise depth or length; I have seen them cracked 
so that they extended from the rim of the foot to 
the hair. 

It takes considerable time to cure cracked hoofs; 
and if the hoof is suffering from any other disease it 
must be gotten rid of before an attempt is made to 
cure the crack in the hoof. The hoof should be 
pressed together and clinched by a wrought nail. The 
animal should not be put to heavy draught labor 
while the hoof is in such a condition. 

It is essential to get the hoof in as good condition 
as possible, as it is necessary to grow a new hoof en- 
tirely, This may be done by applying the Hoof 
ment. 



106 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

To Designate Between Shoulder and Foot 

Laitietiess. 

Some people are at a loss to know how to distin- 
guish between shoulder and foot lameness; and as I 
think it a matter of consequence I will give a few 
hints on the subject. A horse will often in arising 
from lying down, slip his fore extremity forward so 
much as to rupture the striffen, and this will cause a 
small quantity of blood to break from the veins and 
coagulate under the skin, and if it remains there it 
will produce a lameness. 

The way to locate this lameness is to take the 
anim.al by the bridle-bits, and bacK him; if the 
lameness is in the shoulder, he will drag his foot 
as he backs; but if it is in the foot, he will lift it 
up from the ground as he moves. When it is dis- 
covered that the lameness is in the shoulder, to 
remedy it, it will be necessary to insert a rowel, at 
once for the purpose of drawing the inflammation to 
the surface. Then use the White Liniment on the 
point of the shoulder. 

Another way to locate lameness, is by the motions 
of the horse when in-a brisk trot, when he is lame 
below the knee, he will bow his head downward, 
and when lame above the knee he nods his head up- 
ward. 

This is a sure guide to go by. 



THE COMMON SENSE HORSE IJOOK. 107 

Horse-Shoeitig. 

This is one of the most essential and important op- 
erations connected with horse keeping; as a horse that 
is badly shod is never able to do any amount of labor; 
and an admirer of the horse never enjoys a ride be- 
hind an animal that cannot go without appearing to 
be suffering pain, and has a crippling sort of gait. 

All horse owners know that many horses are ruined 
by improper shoeing. I have no intention of condemn- 
ing all blacksmiths, for our towns and villages are 
blessed with many excellent ones, and blacksmiths 
are often blamed for bad shoeing when it is really the 
fault of the farmer in letting the shoe remain on the 
horse's foot too long. For as a general thing, you will 
find the farmers want the smith to put on a shoe so it 
will stay on a year, and this is more injurious than to 
have no shoe on at all. As a horse's hoof, when in a 
healthy condition, grows nearly half an inch in a 
month, his shoes should not remain on longer than 
from sixty to ninety days. 

I have never met an intelligent smith who was not 
anxious to learn all he could in reference to shoeing, 
and whenever I meet an illiterate shoer, he always 
pretends to understand all about the anatomy of the 
horse's foot, but if you ask him any question as to the 
construction of it, he is not able to answer one. This 
is the Kind of smiths that ruin many horses feet 
throughout the land. 



108 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

When the horse is taken to the shop to be shod, it 
is necessary to have his foot trimmed perfectly level. 
If the toe is trimmed down, the heel should be trimmed 
in the same manner, as it is essential that the foot 
should be level. The frog should never be touched, 
as it sheds every three months; it acts as a sort of 
sponge for the foot, and it ought to touch the ground 
whenever the horse steps, in order to gather the 
moisture that the foot may require to keep it in a 
healthy condition. 

After the foot has been trimmed, the shoe should be 
fitted to the foot, and not the foot to the shoe. The 
shoe should be made circular, so as to fit around the 
rim of the horse's foot, coming up close to the frog, in 
order to protect the heel. A great many people ap- 
prove of a shoe that is wide at the heel, but this is en- 
tirely wrong, as it gives no protection whatever to the 
heel. 

Place the nail holes as near to the toe as possible. 
There should be three nails on the inner and four on 
the outer wall of the foot, as the inner is weaker and 
shorter than the outer wall. There should never be a 
cork or toe on a shoe, unless it is in the case of a heavy 
draught horse, then it becomes a matter of necessity. 

A horse should never have a cork without a toe on 
his shoe, as that would prevent the foot from being 
level. 

The nails should never be twisted off with a clinching 
hammer, as great many smiths do, for in twisting they 
are apt to twist the nail in the foot and cause a rup- 
ture of the walls of the foot. The nails should be 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 109 

turned up, and after the nails are drawn, they should 
be cut off with the pinchers, being careful to rasp as 
little enamel as possible off of the front of the foot, 
because the foot cannot be in a healthy condition un- 
til nature goes to work and makes the enamel on the 
front of the hoof again. 



Shoeing a Horse That Interferes. 

The shoe should be rounded off all the way around 
the inner wall of the hoof, so that when the horse 
raises his foot there will be nothing to cut. Great care 
should be taken to file the clinchers off perfectly 
smooth. 

TO BREAK A HORSE THAT INTERFERES. 

The best way to break a horse of interfering, is to 
buckle a round leather roll, stuffed with cotton, be- 
tween the pastern joint and the hoof; buckle it so the 
ends of the roll will come close together. This roll 
strikes the opposite foot, and will cause the horse to 

place his foot in a different position when he steps. A few 
miles of driving will generally break up the habit of interfer- 
ing. 

TO BREAK A HORSE OF FORGING. 
This is one of the most diflScult habits to break a horse of, 
that we have to contend with. We have derived great benefit 
by making the shoe thin at the heel, almost as thin as a knife 
blade, and then putting a piece of steel on the toe of the shoe; 
this raises the foot and causes it to go over the fore foot in- 
stead of striking it. 



110 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Remedy for Narrow Heel. 

The foot should be pared down on the bottom as much as 
possible, and the heels trimmed down low; then there should 
be a circular shoe put on, and the nails must not be drawn too 
tight. 

The Hoof Ointment should be applied to the bottom of the 
hoof, every morning. The horse should be shod every fifteen 
or twenty days until a cure is affected. 

THE HOOF-BOUND HORSE. 

The hoof -bound horse may be known by the manner of 

standing; as he is always shifting his weight from one foot to 
the other, and seems uneasy and restless as if in pain. 

CURE. 

Grooves should be made in the outer wall of the foot, an 
inch apart, all the way around the hoof. Then a shoe should 
be made to circle, so as to protect the heel; and should be 
beveled from the last nail hole back on the inside instead of 
on the outer side. This is done in order to spread the foot. 

Then the Hoof Ointment should be applied every morning 
in the bottom of the hoof. 

The horse's feet should be soaked in warm water at least 
three times per week. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. Ill 

Flat Foot. 

It has puzzled the best of horse-shoers to find a 
remedy for flat foot. An ordinary horse-shoe will not 
answer the purpose, as whenever there is too much 
pressure upon the heel the horse will limp. ThQ only 
remedy for this is to throw the weight off of the heel. 
In order to do this, the slice should be sprung from 
the last nail hole backwards, so that it will have a ten- 
dency to curve downwards; this will cause the shoe to 
spring every time the horse steps, and lessen the 
weight on the heel. By this manner of shoeing you 
will find one of these hor ses will walk with much 
more ease; and after a smith has given this one trial, 
he will adopt it ever after. 

A NAIL IN A horse's FOOT. 

This is considered to be of little consequence by some 
but it frequently happens that a horse steps upon a 
nail, and it enters the foot and proves to be a matter 
of great importance, for the rust off a nail will often 
poison the flesh, and sometimes a nail is forced into 
the foot so as to rupture a nerve; this is apt to pro- 
duce a sympathetic affection of the entire nervous 



112 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

system and cause lockjaw; so it is better to give a 
matter of this kind prompt attention. 

If after the nail has entered the foot, inflammation 
sets in, it must be immediately attended to. The in- 
flammation may be allayed by using a poultice made 
of ground flax seed; this must be applied to the foot 
every night, at same time use the Hoof Ointment on 
the bottom of the foot, and great benefit may be derived 
from soaking the horse's foot in warm water every 
day. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE KOOK. 113 

Traitiitig A Trotting Horse, 

As many persons are desirous of knowing some 
thing about the art of training a horse to trot, and as 
many horses may be made infinitely more valuable by 
being trained, I will endeavor to give a few ideas on * 
the subject. Not having made the business a specialty, 
and, therefore, not being versed on the subject, I have 
referred to Mr. John S. Lackey, who is known to be 
one of the best horse trainers in the West, and am in- 
debted to him for his mode of training. It is given 
below: 

"It will be found that a considerable amount of la- 
bor will be required in the business of training, as it is 
necessary to put the animal in good. condition for the 
business he is expected to follow. The first thing to 
be done in commencing to train, is to give the horse a 
walk of from three to four miles, every morning and 
evening. This is necessary in order to harden the 
muscles, so that he will be the better prepared for 
entering the track, as gradual training is always the 

best. 

"It is necessary also to feed the horse a bran mash 
at least every other day, to keep the bowels open and 
better his general condition. 

"After this has been kept up for two weeks, you 
may begin to exercise him a little more briskly by 



114 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

trotting him moderately. This part of the training is 
known to horsemen ty the name of "jogging." The 
horse should be taken to the track and "jogged" from 
three to four miles a day; this should be continued for 
€it least two weeks, then the horse will be in a condi- 
tion so you can speed him— that is, to put him to his 
utmost speed. A horse should always be jogged from 
one to two miles before speeding him; then he may 
be put to his utmost speed. It is necessary in speed- 
ing a horse to give him a full mile, as you wish to 
convey to his mind the idea that when he is put to his 
utmost speed he is required to go a mile. 

"I have noticed that horses, when put on .a half or 
quarter of a mile track, will go the first half or quarter 
mile in less time than they will the second, and by so 
doing lose time; so it is better to give them to under- 
stand that they must go a mile without stopping. 

"After a horse has been thus exercised on the track, 
he should be taken to the stable, and his mouth should 
be sponged with clean, fresh water; the sweat should 
be v/ell rubbed off, and a blanket thrown over him, and 
he should be given a short walk, after which return 
him .to the stable and rub him entirely dry. By this 
time he may be curried ar.d cleaned, after which band- 
ages should be placed on his legs. This is done in or- 
der to give tone to the blood-vessels and assist circula- 
tion. The bandages should be of linen, and applied to 
the horse damp, being careful that they are well wrung 



THE COMMON- SENSE HORSE JJOOK, 115 

out, SO there will be no water to drip from them. They should 
remain on two hours, after which remove them, dampen the 
horse's legs and rub them until they are quite dry. 

"The hors3 should be fed principally upon oats, which 
should be thoroughly dusted. He should have from three to 
four quarts three times per day. He should also have from 
four to six pounds of nic3, clean timothy hay, morning and 
evening. If driven in the morning he should have a short 
walk in the evening, and he must be comfortably clothed, ac- 
cording to the state of the weather. 

"The horse, after speeding, must always have his legs well 
*soaked out,' in order to allay any fever that may arise. Care 
must be taken to rub the legs perfectly dry. 

"Some horses in training fall into the habit of 'hitching' or 
^hopping.' This is caussd by pressing them too closely, and 
giving them too much work, and they are made to feel a dis- 
like and disgust for the track. This fault can sometimes be 
remedied by changing the horse from the track to the road. 
When this will not break up the habit, I use 'balls.' I put 
two strands of balls on thy leg opposite to the one on which he 
hops. I buckle one row just above the pastern joint, and one 
just below it. 

"I havf' also used what is called by horsemen 
'cross-balls,' that is, using the balls in the same man- 



116^ THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

ner on the opposite fore -leg. These remedies rarely ever fail 
to break up the habit of 'hopping.' 

''Other horses fall into the habit of 'driving on one rein.* 
This is caused by the horse's mouth becoming sore, and in 
order to relieve the pain, he carries his head on one side. 
The first thing to be done is to remove the cause. This is 
done in many cases by what is known as 'floating the horse.' 

"I sometimes buckle a strap to the side of the bridle-bit, 
bring it under the horse's chin, then fasten it to the other side 
of the bit, making it tight enough to prevent, the slipping of 
the bit in the horse's mouth. This I have found to break a 
horse in a short space of time. 

"Persons that train trotting horses should exercise a great 
deal of patience, and should be careful not to overwork the 
horse; for too much training makes him irritable and liable to 
*break.' When he does break he should never be jerked down 
suddenly, as this will have a tendency to lessen his speed, but 
he should be given a full rein until he makes two or three 
jumps, and then be brought back by a steady pull; by these 
means it will be found that the horse will soon learn to lose 
nothing in breaking. 

"Many horses are apt to strike and cut themselves^ 
some wdll cut on the pastern joint, and others on the 
knee ( known to horse trainers as ' swift cut ' ) . This 
may be prevented by wearing a ' boot ' on or over the 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 117 

place where the horse is apt to cut. But I have de- 
rived more benefit from wearing a roll between the 
pastern joint and the hoof; a round leather roll, two 
inches thick, just leaving room enough for a buckle 
on one end and a strap on the other; place this on the 
foot that he cuts on; this has a tendency to make him 
throw his foot in a different position. 

''It is oftentimes found necessary, while trotting a 
horse to give him stimulants, and as all horses are not 
constitutionally alike, as a matter of course the stim- 
ulants given them will need to be different. Some re- 
quire whisky to be given them, and some trainers use 

a corn-meal gruel between heats. 

"The proper amount of whisky to be given a horse 
would be four ounces, with four ounces of water added. 
This stimulant may be easily given without taking 
the horse off the track, by using Professor Patton's 
method of drenching a horse. 

''Another mode of softening the horse's feet is to 
apply a poultice made of flax-seed meal to the bottom 
of the foot. This should be done occasionally, as it 
draws all fever to the surface, and keeps the feet in 
a healthy condition, and prevents them from becom- 
ing hard and brittle. 

"In training a horse to trot, it is the better plan to 
use him in a light sulky, of sixty to seventy pounds' 
weight, being careful to have every part of his har- 
ness made to fit him comfortably." 



JL'S THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

Horse-Training. 

The great secret of horsemanship is kindness toward 
your horse; but still, you must have a way of handling 
him at your will. In order to gain entire command 
over him, we have invented what is ordinarily termed, 
''The ten cent bridle." Take a common cotton cord, 
made of fine yarn, so that it may be quite strong, about 
three-eighths of an inch thick. If you cannot obtain 
a cotton one, a hempen one will answer the purpose, 
if it is strong enough. Let it be about twelve feet in 
length; fasten each end with a knot, to prevent it from 
raveling; make it, and place it around the horse's neck, 
in the same manner as you would a common rope 
halter; then pass your left hand down between the 
horse's neck and the rope, toward the horse's breast, 
grasp the rope in your left hand and draw it toward 

the horse's head; that forms a loop, then place that 
loop in the horse's mouth, and drawing it tight, and 
standing off to the left of the horse, you speak to him 
in a loud and distinct voice, saying: "Come here, sir;" 
at the same time throwing your entire weight upon 
the rope. That will draw the animal toward you 
with a sudden jerk. After repeating this operation 
three or four times, you will find no trouble in hand- 
ling your horse at your will; for, using a cord after 
the above directions on a horse, will make him en- 
tirely submissive. 



THE COMMON-SENSE HOKSE BOOK. 119 

This cord also makes one of the finest bidding 
machines known in use. It does a^vay wi'th the old 
fashioned surcingle, gag-ring, martingale,and crupper. 
Putting this cord in the horse's mouth, and by stand- 
ing in front of him, and jerking him, and at the same 
time speaking gently the words: "come up sir," will 
have the effect of putting him in a more natural posi- 
tion than any other mode of bidding you can invent. 

HOW TO BREAK HORSES OF KICKING. 

A kicking horse is one of the most vicious and dan- 
gerous animals of the horse kind. The cause of horses 
being vicious kickers is the fear of having their legs 
handled, and when you once get them accustomed to 
being handled about the legs you v/ill have no more 
trouble in breaking them of the habit of kicking. 

One way to break a kicker is to^take him with the 
naked halter. Take his tail, part it in the middle, and 
tie a Knot in it, and pass the halter strap through the 
loop made i-n the tail by the knot, and maKe it fast so 
the horse can not go in anyway except in a circle. 
Then take a pole and work it up and down his legs 
,while he is circling in the ring. The object is to get 
him used to having his legs handled. Work him for 

tbout ten minutes in that position, and then cut a bush 
„bout the size of a common currant bush, tie this to 
his tail, so that it will drag on the ground, then whirl 
ihim for about 15 minutes more, then put the harness 



120 THE COMMON-SENSE IIOHSE BOOK. 

on him, if he works all right, well and good; if he does 
not, go through the operation again. 

Another way of breaking a kicker is with a small 
cord about twenty feet long, and about three-eights of 
an inch thick. Pass it over the horse's neck, putting 
the center of the cord on the horse's withers, and cross- 
ing the cord in the horse's mouth, then bring it back 
to the hind legs, making it fast by buckling a leather 
strap around the legs, between the pastern, and the 
coronal joint. Then fasten your line in the cord that 
is on the horse's neck, stand off and start him, when 
he makes an attempt to kick, the cord draws, and hurts 
his mouth, and as a horse can think of but one thing 
at a time, thinks of his mouth and forgets to kick. 
This plan is almost sure to break him, as I never knew 
a horse to kick more than three to five times with 
this training. 

HOW TO MANAGE BALKY HORSES. 

If you should happen to meet with a balking horse, 
you will find that he is one of the most worthless of the 
horse kind, from the fact, that the time when he is most 
needed he is the least to be depended upon. The cause 
of horses being balkers is owing to their being mis- 
managed, and it will be found most generally, where 
horses balk, that the driver is a person who does not 
understand how to control a team. For instance, the 
old gentleman farmer will say to his son John: "You 
take old Tom, and the young mare and go and take a 
load of wood to town.'^ The boy goes down to the woods 
and unthinkingly puts on a load of wood large enough 
for two good pulling horses. The young mare being 



TJIE COMMON-SENSE HOUSE HOOK. 121 

tender in the shoulders, and becoming wearied with 
toil she is not accustomed to, comes to a place where 
there is to be unusually hard pulling, and she is sure 
to stop. The young man gets out of the wagon, pats 
her on the neck, and speaks to her, and encourages 
her v/hile she stops, and so he spends his time until 
finally the old substantial horse pulls the load out; and 
when he gets the load out and up on level ground, he 
will draw the young mare up and commence to whip 
her. Now, you see he is whipping her for pulling, and 
petting her for balking. Now, having formed the 
habit, you must invent a cure for it, and get them 
broken of it, for, until they are completely broken 
they are in a manner worthless. 

One of the best plans we know of, is to put the bal- 
ker on the off side, then take a small cord, twenty feet 
in length, make one end of this cord fast to the right 
harness ring of the balking horse, then take the cord 
back and place it under the horses tail, make the other 
end of this cord fast to the harness ring of the near 
horse, get into the wagon, and as you touch the near 
horse with the whip, you must speak in a firm and dis- 
tinct tone of words: ''Get up," and as the near horse 
moves up, he throws the balker forward, as he gets 
ready to start, speak the word ''whoa." Then starting 
him up in the same manner a second time, you will 
find when you say "get up," the second time, you will 
have no difficulty in starting him, as he will be perfect- 
ly willing to go, and pull his share of the load. 

It is a great mistake as a general thing, to whip a 
horse for balking; for it serves to exite him, and con- 
fuse him, and render him all the more unmanageable. 
A good manager of horses must have control ovei" 



12'i THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

himself and not work himself up into a passion, for 
then he is sure to do something that will cause his 
horse to be more nervous, and^fter having beaten a 
horse once for not pulling, he will not be likely to 
forget it; so the next time he gets in a ^'tight place," 
he will be nervous and confused just from remembering 
the vdiipping he got before; so that it is a better plan 
to use firmness and kindness towards a horse at all 
times and not severity. 

There still another reliable way in which to start 
a balking horse. If he should stop with you in a 
buggy, and refuse to go furthur— it is as follows: Take 
a nev/spaper, tear it in pieces, and fill the horses ears 
with it. This plan hardly ever fails to start him, as it 
produces an odd sensation to the horse, and he forgets 
that he is -stopping, and starts off before he thinks 
what he is doing. He shakes his head and goes with 
no more trouble. 

CURING THE HALTER-BREAKER OR PULL-BACK. 

This is a very disagreeable and aiinoying habit 
which some horses have, of which it is sometimes ex- 
ceedingly difficult to break them. 

One of the best ways known at the present time, 
and one that will be of interest and benefit to those 
who read this book, we give as follows: First, buckle 
a strap around the left foreleg of the animal just above 
the knee, then take the halter strap, pass it through 
the hole in the manger, and make it fast to the strap 
which is around the fore-leg. As the horse pulls back" 
to break the halter, it pulls his fore-leg forward, and 
no horse will enjoy breaking his halter at the expense 
of his leg, after the trial of a few times, the habit will 
be broken up entirely. 



THE COMMON-SENSE IIOKSE BOOK. 123 

THE BREACHY OR ROGUISH HORSE. 

The next subject we will take up and discuss, is the 
one in which we treat a breachy horse. I turn them 
from the stable into the pasture, with the head-stall 
and halter: First, taking a piece of leather about six 
inches wide and' ten inches long, and fastening it to 
the top of the halter, so that falls down over the horse's 
eyes. I then cut five slits in the leather over each of 
his eyes, when the horse comes up to a fence and at- 
tempts to jump, the fence seems to come up to him. 
And it would be almost impossible to make him jump 
a fence, with that kind of a blind over his eyes. 

HOW TO CATCH A HORSE IN PASTURE. 

You must first break your horse to do anything 
you want him to do to be obedient in all respects. 
By patience and perserverence you can correct al- 
most all the faults in a horse, and niake " him per- 
fectly trustworthy, and, in fact make him just what 
a noble horse ought to be. 

The reason your horses are unruly and bad to catch 
when in pasture is because you** boy or servant when 
he takes your horse to the pasture, pulls off the 
bridle and hits them just to see them run away, 
and by so doing he gives the animal cause to think 
that every time you come to the pasture you have 
come to hit them, and so they seem to think it is to 
their advantage to keep away from you. 

The most successful method of treating horses for 
this fault, and bad habit, is to- turn the horse in a 
small inclosure, the smallest lot you have is the best, 
so that when he runs from you he is bound to circle 
around this small inclosure; Vv^alK slowly around in 
the center until the horse stops, and if he stops, you 



124 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 

may go up to him, caress him and pat him on the neck 
and speak kindly to him, saying, "you are a fine horse,^' 
always speaking kindly to him. Then try again in 
the same manner, until he will come up to you with 
out any hesitation. Then go away and leave him for 
a while. After a short time repeat the same opera- 
tion again, and by giving him a few lessons in this 
way, you can entirely correct the habit. And the 
horse will soon learn to know that you have no inten- 
tion of striking him, and will learn that you are not 
to be feared. By so doing, and by not allowing any 
one to strike him, he will soon learn to come when 

he sees you, and you will experience no more trouble 
about catching him but on the other hand, he will 
learn to follow you like a dog, and you can catch him 
at any time. 

THE CRIBBER, OR STUMP SUCKER. 

Cribbing, or stump-sucking, is considered by some 
people to be a disease, but we think it nothing more 
or less than a bad habit, although a very difficult one 
to cure or break, but with time and attention to the 
matter, it can be effectually remedied. 

The horse first forms the habit by the compression 
of the upper nippers, and pressing down on the 
trough in order to get air through his teeth. By so 
doing he forms a habit, which to say the least of, is 
lasting, and is very hard to break. I derive a great 
benefit from filing; I take a small file, and file the 
upper nippers apart so the air will constantly pass 
through his teeth, and by so doing the habit is gen- 
erally remedied. 

The Loller, or the horse that protrudes his tongue; 
this is nothing but a habit in a horse, and is usually 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK. 125- 

/ 

observed in old horses, and it is considered a difficult thing to 
teach an old horse new tricks; so it is equally a difficult task 
to break an old horse of a bad habit. The horse usually gets 
his tongue over the bit. I have used to very great advantage 
a curb bit, and found it prevents the horse from getting his 
tongue above the bit. 

Another method that is considered a reliable remedy and 
makes it impossible for the horse to get his tongue on the out- 
side of his mouth, is to take a small strap and pass it over the 
top of the tongue and buckle it around the lower jaw. This 
will prove to be quite an important preventive, as it has been 
used with success. 

HOW TO MAKE A HORSE LIE DOWN. 
It is necessary sometimes to lay a horse down in order to 
perform an operation on him. I strap up his left fore-leg, 
and then I have a surcingle with a cupper and a ring, and put 
it on the horse so the ring will be on the right side of the 
horse. Then I take a small cotton cord, about fifteen feet in 
length, and three-eighths of an inch thick, tie it on the left 
hand side, in the ring of the halter, pass it through his mouth 
and back through the ring of the surcingle, and bring it for- 
ward;'stand out in front of the horse, and pull his head around 
to the right side, close up to the surcingle. This process 
brings him down upon his left knee, from which position he is 
caused to lie down. This mode of throwing a horse down is 
the simplest and best known in the profession. Besides 
knowing of this excellent method of throwing a horse, we also 
have knowledge of the fact that throwing a horse 
several times successively will completely conquer him, 
and make the most vicious animal submissive, as it 



126 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, • 

does not take more than a few minutes to worry him out, so 
he will not care to oppose you, and you can handle him at 
your will. 

THE TKICK HOKSE. 

As tricks are all easily taught, any one can train a horse to 
perform tricks by having patience and taking time, and en- 
deavoring to make him understand just what you are desirous 
of having him do. 

TO TEACH A HORSE TO LIE DOWN. 

You Inust always throw him down, and remember to say the 
words, ''Lie down, sir!" as he falls, so he will become accus- 
tomed to hear the words while he goes through the motion of 
lying down. Give him a lesson every day until he has thor- 
oughly learned that he must lie down just when he hears the 
command, "Lie down, sir!" 

HOW TO TEACH A HOKSE TO SIT UP. 

After he has learned to lie down when he is bidden, it is a 
very easy matter to teach him to sit up, by having around the 
flanks a surcingle, and getting a couple of stout men to hold 
him down behind, while you work him up gently in front, by 
the bridle. Caress him on the neck until you convey the idea 
that a sitting posture is the one desired. After you have 
made him understand that he is to obey just what you com- 
mand him to do, you v, ill experiencj no more trouble with 
him. 

TO TEACH A HORSE TO SAY "YES" OR "NO." 

To teach a horse to say "no," you must take a pin 
or some sharp instrument, and prick him on the top 
of the neck. When he feels the prick of the pin, he will 
shake his head, and by accompanying the motion by 
some word or question, he will become accustomed to 



THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE ROOK. 127 

shaking his head, when he hears the words and sees 
the motion, because he will think he is going to be 
pricked with the pin. In the same manner you can 
teach him to say "yes,'' the only difference beinrr in 
the motion, as you will have to prick him in the breast, 
and he will make a motion with his head which answers 
for yes. For instance, if you wish to hold conversation 
with him, say: ''Would you like to have a drink, sir?'' 
at the same time throwing your hand over his neck as 
if to prick him. This motion will carse him to shake 
his head, and then you can say: "You are a temper- 
ance horse then, are you not, sir?" throwing your hand 
down in front of his breast. This motion will make 
him say "yes." You can go on in this manner and 
hold any conversation you may wish. 

To teach a horse to tell his age by pawing, you must 
take some sharp pointed instrument and prick him on 
the fore-leg, at the same time holding him by the 
bridle bit, and begin to count as follows: "One, two, 
three, four," and v/hen you have come to the number 
at which you wish him to answer, you must jerk his 
head up, and by so doing, you convey to his mind the 
idea that when you count he must paw. 

HOW TO BREAK A HALTER-CHEWER. 

This may be done by making a strong solution of 
capsicum, and soaking the halter in it. The animal 
will soon learn not to chew this kind of a' halter. 

I claim no especial credit for the business of horse- 
training or taming; but, as a number of people think it 
important to understand how to break a horse, I have 
given the best theory on the subject within my know- 
ledge. Some think there is great virtue in horse-tam- 
ing medicines, and others are of the opinion that a 



128 THE COMMON-SENSE HORSE BOOK, 

great benefit may be derived from the use of the cas« 
tor or wart on the horse's legs. These are taken and 
pulverized, and the powder blown into the nostrils ^ of 
the horse, after which, the animal is supposed to become 
entirely submissive; but in my opinion, this is nothing 
more than the sheerest nonsense. 

The horse taming medicine consists of a combination 
of the oil of rhodium and oil of cumin, in equal por- 
tions. This I also pronounce to be perfectly spurious. 

JOCKEY TRICKS. 

I give some of these because some persons think 
them valuable, and not because I think them to be of 
any account, as I condemn them in every instance, 
and I think the practice of them is utter folly. 

One is to make a horse refuse to eat when food is 
offered him. This is done by greasing the roof of the 
horse's mouth with tallow. Another one is to give a 
horse the glanders, the secret of this is to pour fresh 
butter into the animal's ears, so it will run out at the 
nostrils. This is all humbug to begin on, as there is 
no opening between the ear and the nostrils. 

Another one is to cure the horse of the heaves, this 
is done by giving the horse a half pint of fine bird 
shot. They say this will stop the hard breathing for 
two hours, but in my opinion, this is cruelty to the 
horse, and should never be done. 

Another trick is to make a horse go lame. This is 
done by threading a horse hair through a needle, and 
passing it through the cord of the horse's leg, and cut- 
ting the ends off on each side; this causes an inflam- 
mation, and the horse will go very lame. A man that 
would be so heartless as to inflict so much unnecessary 
pain upon a horse, should be punished by law. 



t)tc 



23 1904 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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